Press Release: Kidstretch Rating VQB5

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Homestretch’s Kidstretch Program Recognized Among Virginia’s Top Early Childhood Education Providers

FALLS CHURCH, VA – Homestretch, a non-profit dedicated to empowering homeless families with children in Virginia to attain permanent housing and self-sufficiency, announced today that their early childhood program, Kidstretch, has received an “Exceeds Expectations” rating from the Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5) system, placing it among the top three percent of preschools and childcare programs in the state. Of the 3,121 sites evaluated across Virginia, Kidstretch is one of only 79 programs to achieve this distinction.

Virginia’s VQB5 rating system rigorously assesses childcare and early education sites across the state to ensure high-quality learning experiences for children. The “Exceeds Expectations” designation recognizes sites that go above and beyond in fostering a supportive, engaging and developmentally appropriate environment for young children. This honor highlights Kidstretch’s commitment to educational excellence and its impactful role in preparing children for success in school and beyond.

“At Homestretch, we’re serious about breaking cycles of poverty,” said Barfonce Baldwin, Executive Director of Homestretch. “By equipping homeless families with financial education and tools, we offer them a pathway to regain control of their finances and rebuild their lives. Kidstretch’s recent rating underscores the impact of high-quality early education in empowering families facing homelessness to build brighter futures.”

Kidstretch is a unique program of Homestretch. Kidstretch provides a secure, enriching environment for children while their parents work, pursue education, or participate in other Homestretch programming, ensuring that each family has the opportunity to build a stable and prosperous future.

While Kidstretch serves families in the Homestretch program, it is also open to the public and provides full-time care to children regardless of their economic status. Kidstretch values diversity and believes that it is beneficial for children to interact with one another regardless of their families’ economic, social, or religious backgrounds. Homestretch’s small, state-licensed preschool program is a hidden gem in Falls Church City, particularly for working families.

For more information on Homestretch, Kidstretch and how to support or get involved, please visit https://www.homestretchva.org.

About Homestretch: Homestretch, an acclaimed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, empowers homeless families in Northern Virginia to achieve lasting self-sufficiency. Established in 1990, Homestretch provides families with safe housing and a rigorous program focused on financial stability, health, life skills and career development. The organization has helped over 2,000 families break the cycle of poverty and secure permanent housing. To learn more, visit www.homestretchva.org.