AUSTIN, TX — Sep. 13, 2024 — Upbring, a leading nonprofit dedicated to advancing child wellbeing, is proud to announce a significant expansion of its Head Start Preschool program into Nueces County, effective Jan. 1, 2025. This milestone is a part of Upbring’s ongoing commitment to breaking the cycle of child abuse and fostering the holistic development and wellbeing of children across Texas.

The expansion, made possible by a new grant awarded by the Office of Head Start, will allow Upbring to serve up to 785 additional children, bringing the total number of children impacted by Upbring Head Start and Early Head Start Preschool program to nearly 2,250 statewide. This growth builds on the incredible success Upbring has achieved since receiving its 2015 Head Start award in Wharton and Matagorda counties nearly ten years ago, where the program began with just four locations serving 259 children.

“At Upbring, our mission to advance child wellbeing is driven by the dedication and care of our Upbring Warriors,” said Andrew Benscoter, Ed.D., Chief Knowledge Officer at Upbring. “We are immensely proud of these achievements, which reflect the incredible work and commitment of our entire Upbring family. This expansion into Nueces County is a testament to their dedicated efforts, and we are excited to broaden our reach and continue setting the standard for excellence in child and family services.”

As Upbring Head Start expands, the organization will also welcome up to 225 new Head Start Warriors—dedicated staff members who will play a crucial role in providing top-tier, trauma-informed education and care to the children and families in its programs.

“At Upbring Head Start Preschool, the work we do is vital in shaping the wellbeing of every child who walks through our doors,” said Darrell Cox, Ed.D., Executive Director of Education at Upbring. “Each day, we provide a nurturing environment where children receive the care and education they need to grow, learn and thrive. Our commitment to early childhood education ensures that every child, regardless of their background, can reach their full potential, setting them on a path toward a bright and promising future.”

This expansion is a significant milestone in Upbring’s efforts to establish itself as the go-to provider in child wellbeing across Texas. By broadening its reach and deepening its impact, Upbring not only strengthens its brand but also reinforces its unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of children and families.

To learn more about Upbring’s mission and initiatives, please visit Upbring.org. Stay updated with the latest news and developments by following Upbring on Facebook, Instagram and X.

About Upbring

Founded in 1881, Upbring is a Texas-wide organization implementing generational innovation to advance child wellbeing. We are the leaders in delivering a broad spectrum of life-restoring services that elevate and heal human beings in our communities. Intent on shifting perspectives and reimagining current systems, our work secures a future free from the damages of abuse. Join us in our mission to break the cycle of child abuse by empowering children, families, and communities.

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