Early Learning Hub of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties Releases Strategic Investment Recommendations Report
Albany, OR — September 16, 2025 — The Early Learning Hub of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties has released its 2025 Strategic Investment Recommendations Report, a data-driven planning tool designed to guide collaborative investments that improve outcomes for young children and families across the tri-county region.
Building on the 2025 Regional Data Book, which provides reliable data on child and family well-being, the report highlights regional trends, opportunities, and persistent challenges. It identifies equity-focused strategies to expand access to early learning, strengthen school readiness, support family well-being, and reduce disparities linked to race, geography, income, and ability.
“Strategic investments are not intended to be just the Hub’s responsibility,” said Kristi Collins, Early Learning Hub Director. “This document is meant to help partners across health, education, human services, Tribal nations, and community organizations align resources, blend and braid funding, and work together where investments can have the greatest impact.”
Organized by county—Linn, Benton, and Lincoln—the report outlines both regional priorities and county-specific needs, comparing local data to statewide benchmarks. Issues such as rural access to services, childcare and preschool shortages, poverty among single-mother households, and gaps in infant-toddler care were noted as significant areas of concern.
Guided by Raise Up Oregon 2024–2028 and the Hub’s strategic plan, the report serves as a tool for the Hub Governing Board and partners to foster cross-sector collaboration. Opportunities identified include expanding rural access through transportation and telehealth, building partnerships between housing and early learning programs, strengthening connections between preschools and K-12 schools, and improving maternal and child health supports.
The Early Learning Hub of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties is part of Oregon’s statewide Early Learning Hub network, working to create an equitable, coordinated, and culturally responsive system where every child grows up safe, nurtured, healthy, and ready for school.
Contact:
Kristi Collins
Director, Early Learning Hub of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties
(541) 917-4908
Website: http://lblearlylearninghub.org