Sacramento County is highlighting a major milestone in community-driven early childhood investment following the approval of $4,172,410 in funding by the First 5 Sacramento Commission for 35 community-based organizations. All awarded organizations are first-time recipients of First 5 funding, marking a significant expansion of support to historically under-resourced communities.
The funding was awarded through First 5 Sacramento’s Racial Equity funding pathway and reflects a transformative shift in how early childhood investments are designed and distributed across the county for programs located in historically underfunded communities.
This historic funding decision was led by First 5 Sacramento’s Equity in Action Committee, a 15-member body made up of parents, caregivers and community leaders who live in the neighborhoods where the grants will be implemented. Through this committee, First 5 Sacramento implemented a Participatory Grantmaking Model that intentionally places decision-making power in the hands of community members rather than institutions.
As a result of this process, funding will support organizations serving children and families in 27 high-priority ZIP codes throughout Sacramento County. The funded programs are culturally responsive and community-driven, addressing long-standing inequities in early childhood development.
“This bold new grantmaking process is rooted in trust—recognizing that community members closest to the challenges often have the most effective solutions, yet are rarely asked to lead,” said Phil Serna, Chair of First 5 Sacramento and County Supervisor representing the First District. “By prioritizing equity, lived experience and local expertise in funding decisions, and through the thoughtful leadership of the Equity in Action Committee, First 5 Sacramento is reaching more families in the neighborhoods where resources are needed most.”
The participatory approach ensures that early childhood programs supported through this funding are grounded in lived experience, cultural knowledge and strong community relationships—key elements for effective and sustainable outcomes.
More information about the funded organizations and their programs, the Equity in Action Committee, and First 5 Sacramento’s participatory grantmaking model is available on the First 5 Sacramento website.