Child Care Resource & Referrals (CCR&R)
This initiative supports continuous quality improvement in child care centers and homes. Through expert coaching, hands-on technical assistance, and professional training, CCR&R helps early educators enhance their programs, elevate their star ratings, and provide high-quality care for children from birth to age five.
Family Support & Early Literacy
Through our Early Literacy programs, including the Raising a Reader & Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, Smart Start of Pender County offers numerous opportunities and options to support the children and families in our community, regardless of their income.
Accessing Higher Education
A professional development program for early educators working in child care settings. Participants can apply for grant-funded awards to pursue credit-bearing early childhood education courses, engage in advocacy, attend trainings, and implement literacy activities—all aimed at advancing their careers and enriching classroom experiences.
Child Care Subsidy
Provides direct financial assistance to eligible families through TANF or CCDF funding. Administered via a state-level contract and local partnerships, this program helps ensure access to affordable, high-quality child care for children in need.
Community Outreach, Education & Systems Building
This initiative strengthens early childhood systems across Pender County by fostering collaboration among local organizations, sharing resources, and promoting best practices. Through outreach and education, it enhances the experiences of young children and their families while building community resilience.
Early Childhood Lending Library Enhancement
Our Pender County Early Childhood Lending Library is a hands-on resource hub for caregivers, educators, and community members serving children ages 0–5. The Lending Library offers books, curriculum kits, manipulatives, and access to tools like laminators and die cuts—supporting child development and early learning across the county.