Change in Head Start providers leads to layoff notice

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Wilmington-based Children & Families First (CFF) has been named by  The Office of Head Start (OHS) as the Interim Manager of Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in Kent and Sussex Counties. The change became effective last month.

The decision led to the North Carolina company running Head Start in Kent and Sussex counties to file a  WARN layoff notice with the Delaware Department of Labor.  The 169 former employees of Telamon Corp. can  apply for positions with Children & Families First.

Telamon  decided  earlier this year to end its role in the Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Delaware. “Telamon is happy to work with CFF to support their successful implementation of the program,” said Suzanne Orozco, executive director of Telamon Corporation. CFF and Telamon are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition so that eligible families continue to have access to high quality early learning experiences for their children in the most appropriate setting. 

“We are excited for the opportunity to serve children and families through the evidence-based Head Start and Early Head Start programs,” said Kirsten Olson, CEO  of CFF. “These programs are a natural fit within our statewide continuum of prevention, intervention and healing, building on our 135 years’ of experience delivering outstanding programs and support for children and their families.”

CFF is working closely with Head Start  to determine the best path forward in reopening centers in the two counties that were closed due to the pandemic. 

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“We recognize that this year has been difficult in so many ways for families,” said Eliza Hirst, chief strategy officer of CFF. “Our commitment has always been to ensure children are safe, healthy, and nurtured to achieve their full potential. We are excited to continue these vital programs because we recognize the importance of early intervention and early childhood education for the life-long success of children.”

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