Early Childhood Care and Education & Phone Scam Warning

June 14, 2024

Childcare and early childhood education are getting a major boost after the governor signed a new bill into law. I'll dig deeper into how we're making those priorities more affordable and accessible across Connecticut.

Stamford Police tell us more scammers are calling families claiming a loved one has been kidnapped and are using fake voice recordings to convince victims they're telling the truth. Keep scrolling to learn what you should do if you receive this bogus phone call.

Are you considering a day at the beach now that it's getting hotter? Please read below to get valuable information you should know before you dip your toes in the sand at Cummings Park, West Beach, or Cove Island Park.

Here are the sections of today's email:

  • Support for Early Childhood Care and Education
  • Scary Scam Call Warning
  • Stamford Juneteenth Celebration
  • What To Know Before Going To the Beach
  • Secure Your Load
 
Support for Early Childhood Care and Education
Governor Lamont signed a priority bill into law supporting early childhood care and education. House Bill 5002, which I co-sponsored, helps ensure the success of families and future generations.

This bill: 

  • Creates the “Early Childhood Care and Education Fund,” to be used for childcare and early childhood education programs
  • Establishes the Early Childhood Care and Education Fund Advisory Commission that will report on the health of the Fund and annually update recommendations on how to best use its resources
  • Invests in teachers and assistant teachers in state-funded school readiness programs and state-funded childcare programs
  • Requires a study on the availability of space in state-owned properties that may be used for early childhood care and education programs

These are sound investments in our state’s future and will go a long way toward helping parents earn a living and provide for their children’s care and education.
     
    Scary Scam Call Warning

    Stamford Police are warning everyone, and especially Hispanic families, of a dangerous and scary phone scam. The criminals call pretending to have kidnapped a family member and use an actual voice recording of that person to deceive victims. They are specifically told not to contact the alleged missing person or other relatives. According to police, the scammers target Spanish speaking families who use WhatsApp and then demand money.

    Police remind everyone that if you receive this call, it is most likely a scam, and you should give them a call. Do not give money to anyone demanding a ransom.
    Learn More Here
     
    Stamford Juneteenth Celebration
    The community is invited to the city's second annual Juneteenth celebration on Saturday, June 15. The event kicks off with a flag raising at 11:30 A.M. at the City of Stamford Government Center. NBA legend John Starks will serve as Grand Marshal, and the crowd will commemorate freedom and the advancement of black people in the United States. 
    Starks will then lead a parade at noon in Mill River Park where there will be an art show, double Dutch tournament, local vendors, children's activities and entertainment with special guest celebrity radio personality, DJ/Producer DJ Clue.
     
    The event is free, but you are encouraged to register in advance by clicking here.
     
    What To Know Before Going To the Beach
    Now that it feels like summer, you may be spending more time at our wonderful beaches. The Stamford Advocate recently published a story answering questions about parking, lifeguards, and more.
    Get Answers About Our Beaches!
     
    Secure Your Load
    Unsecured loads are dangerous, illegal, expensive, and preventable. As we take more beach and camping trips, keep these steps in mind!