The holiday season is in full swing and we want to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to all parents, early childhood education providers and advocates of quality early care and education initiatives.

Recently, we recognized 24 students who have received their Child Development Associates (CDA) credential through the Infant/Toddler CDA Coaching Program sponsored by the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, a McCormick Foundation Fund, under the instruction of our talented staff. We are grateful for community partners like Orlando Magic who advocate the importance of strengthening educators for our community's youngest citizens and future workforce.

As we gather this holiday season, we must remember there is still more work to be done to ensure that ALL Orange County children have the same opportunities and resources to enter school ready to learn. This can only be made possible with your support.

On average there are more than 8,000 children from low-income families waiting for quality child care services and your support can help make a difference.