Smart Start of New Hanover County shares with the other citizens of New Hanover County a common concern for and commitment to the welfare and future success of our youngest children. As part of a statewide early childhood Initiative, Smart Start of New Hanover County serves as a local leader in developing a comprehensive, collaborative approach to serve the needs of all children, birth to 5, in New Hanover County. The first 2000 days are critical. A child has about 2,000 days between birth and the start of Kindergarten. We know that during this time in a child’s life, the brain grows to 90% of its adult size and children are eager and ready to learn; therefore, their access to high quality health care and learning environments matters greatly. We collaborate with our statewide and local network of community services on behalf of children and their families in order to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enter school prepared for success. Smart Start of New Hanover County: - Is a community-based, comprehensive approach serving all children ages 0-5 and their families. - Funds services in three major areas: health, family support, and early care and education. - Creates changes in service delivery through innovation and collaboration, building bridges in our community to answer the unmet needs of children and families. Smart Start of New Hanover County is a private 501(c)-3 (non-profit) organization.