Programs & Initiatives
Last fiscal year, First 5 Riverside received about $23 million in funding from tobacco tax revenue collected by the state and distributed to counties based on their annual live birth rate. These funds are awarded to organizations, specific projects and providers that develop new programs or services that fit with the Commission's strategic plan to support Riverside County children, from prenatal to age 5, and their families.
Funds are applied for and distributed through a Request for Proposal process where proposals are sought from the community targeting areas the Commission has determined meets the goals and objectives outlined in its Strategic Plan. These funds are intended to enhance existing services for children and may not supplant existing resources or create service duplication. As part of a results-based accountability system, First 5 Riverside collects data from agencies monthly to evaluate targets and demonstrate results being achieved.