The answer: investing in early childhood education for disadvantaged children. Experts say that providing young people with the tools they need can mean the difference between success or failure when they are adults. In addition, for every $1 invested in early child development, there is a $7 return, notes Nobel Prize-winning Professor James Heckman.

In his work, Professor Heckman demonstrates how many major economic and social problems in America — crime, teenage pregnancy, high school dropout rates, adverse health conditions — can be traced to low levels of abilities such as attentiveness, persistence and impulse control. Heckman found that early nurturing, learning experiences and physical health from birth to age 5 can have a huge impact on whether an individual succeeds or fails in society. The most economically efficient time to develop these skills and abilities is in the very early years when developmental education is most effective.

4CS of Passaic County enables you to help with this national priority on a local level. Our mission is to help families in need connect with state resources, so they can pay for full- or part-time child care. Last year more than 7,000 families received financial aid to help pay for childcare, summer camp, and before- and after-care and 10,331 were served. These programs benefit children, but also give parents the time to work, go to school and provide for their families.

While 4CS of Passaic County does receive some state funding, we also need outside donations to cover gaps in funding. Would you consider making a tax-deductible gift of $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or another amount? You can make a secure online donation at www.4cspassaic.org.

Donations also help us provide vocational training, certification and continuing education for those who want to work in the early childhood education field.

Your support today, through a secure online donation, to 4CS of Passaic County will do so much to make the holidays special. Local youngsters and their families will find hope because you care.

P.S. If you know anyone who would benefit from our services, let them know that we are here to help.