Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam announced recently that Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s budget includes $15.5 million to support early childhood interventions.

The investment follows recommendations from both the Children’s Cabinet and the Commonwealth Council on Childhood Success, according to a press release.

The two-year budget plan includes $15.5 million for the following programs: $6.75 million each year in Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) funds to increase funding for programs using the home visiting model.

This increase more than doubles funds for programs following the Healthy Families America home visiting model from $4.3 to $11 million in TANF funds annually; $1 million each year to increase non-general fund support for the Comprehensive Health Investment Project (CHIP) of Virginia.

The purpose of the program is to develop, expand, and operate a network of local public-private partnerships providing comprehensive care coordination, family support, and preventative medical and dental services to low-income, at-risk children.

 The proposed budget requires approval by the Virginia General Assembly.