Orange County has introduced Early Childhood Connections, a free service aimed at helping families, caregivers, and providers find and access early childhood resources across the county. The program was developed by the Orange County Infant and Early Childhood Coalition in partnership with the Orange County Health Department, Department of Mental Health, and Youth Bureau.
According to Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, “When families have concerns about their child’s development, they deserve clear answers and compassionate support. Early Childhood Connections provides a trusted place to turn, one that helps families understand their options and connect to services that support and strengthen children and families across Orange County.”
The service offers individualized guidance over the phone or by email for those seeking help with developmental, behavioral, early learning, or family-support needs. It is not intended as a crisis line but rather as a resource navigation tool to inform families about available services and how to access them.
Early Childhood Connections aims to ensure that no family feels isolated when seeking assistance for young children. The program provides support in understanding various programs and community resources, connects users with screenings or early intervention services, and offers information for professionals assisting families.
Rachel Wilson, Executive Director of the Orange County Youth Bureau, stated: “The Orange County Youth Bureau has over 48 years of expertise in promoting Positive Youth Development. Part of that experience includes providing Resource and Referral assistance for children, youth, and families. We are especially excited to be a part of this new initiative to better assist families with young children access the information and services they need while providing extra support throughout the process.”
Families can contact Early Childhood Connections by calling 845-615-3613 or emailing [email protected]. Additional information about resources for children ages 0-5 is available on the county website through this brochure: https://www.orangecountygov.com/DocumentCenter/View/31409/Family-Infant-and-Early-Childhood-Brochure?bidId=.
For media inquiries regarding this initiative, Rebecca Sheehan serves as Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information.
County residents can also follow updates from county officials on social media platforms including Facebook (@OrangeCountyNYGovt), Instagram (@OrangeCountyNYGovt), X (@OCGovNY), as well as check out video series like Blueprint Orange on the official website.
