NC Smart Start site

Since 1994, we have been Chatham's home to North Carolina's award wining Smart Start initiative for children from birth to 5. Through Smart Start, we fund programs in Chatham County to improve child care, children's health, and family support.

Smart Start AT a glance - CORE SERVICES

To provide Smart Start services each local partnership develops a comprehensive plan that targets the greatest needs in their community among three core services: child care (quality, affordability, and availability); health; and family support.

Smart Start legislation mandates how much from each local partnership's allocation should be spent on specific services.

70% is to be spent  on child care related services. At least 30% of that must be spent on child care subsidies, making child care affordable. The remaining 30% can be spent on improving children's health and supporting families.

All programs are carefully monitored to make sure they meet their specified goals and spend their money wisely.

PBIS results
FY 2006-07

Download performance-based results of our programs

30% 

Making Child Care Affordable

40% 

Improving Child Care Quality

Making Child Care Available

30% 

Improving Children's Health

Supporting Families 

OUR HISTORY

1993 SMART START was launched by North Carolina Governor Jim Hunt to address the concern that many children begin school unprepared for school success.

1994 A group of Chatham County citizens formed a non-profit corporation, the Chatham County Partnership for Children,  to apply for Smart Start funds and begin working for children in the county.

1995 Chatham County chosen for Smart Start funding  

2000 All 100 North Carolina counties were receiving Smart Start funds.

2003 The Chatham County Partnership now funds 16 programs with Smart Start funding, about $1,600,000 annually.