[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 30, Number 20 (Monday, May 23, 1994)]
[Pages 1112-1113]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Signing the Human Services Amendments of 1994

May 18, 1994

    Twenty-nine years ago today, President Lyndon Johnson announced a 
program of hope for our Nation's most vulnerable children and their 
families, a program designed to give children a true ``Head Start.''

    I am particularly pleased that many of those who helped launch Head 
Start could join us today to witness the fruits of their vision and see 
the faces of those who entered Head Start programs in that first summer 
of 1965. They represent more than 13 million children and families whose 
lives have been touched by this great program.
    It is with tremendous pride that I help turn the next page in the 
distinguished history of Head Start by signing S. 2000, legislation that 
sets forth a bold new agenda for the future of the Head Start program. 
Over the years, Head Start has been successful in improving the lives of 
low-income children and their families by providing health and social 
services and education. These comprehensive services have changed 
numerous lives and contributed to a stronger future for our Nation.

    I am particularly pleased that this legislation, which authorizes a 
wide array of human services programs, is the product of extraordinary 
bipartisan cooperation. This effort began last June when Secretary 
Shalala announced the establishment of the Advisory Committee on Head 
Start Quality and Expansion. Its groundbreaking report set forth a 
blueprint for creating a 21st century Head Start and laid the foundation 
for the landmark legislation that we celebrate today.

    This legislation seeks to re-energize the Head Start program for 
generations to come. Through this legislation, strong new efforts will 
be made to improve the quality of Head Start programs, and an important 
new initiative will be launched to provide Head Start services to 
families with children under age three. Services will be tailored to 
meet the needs of today's families, and creative partnerships will be 
forged with other key programs at the State and local level.

    Head Start reminds us that our country cannot afford to waste its 
young or ignore their families. We must value every child and help every 
parent succeed. Head Start creates the sense of community that all of us 
need in our lives. The dedication of thousands of volunteers, staff, and 
parents helps create the special relationship that defines the Head 
Start program. Head Start is indeed a celebration of human diversity and 
creativity.

                                            William J. Clinton

The White House,
May 18, 1994.

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