CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — West Virginia’s two U.S. senators say almost $10 million is being awarded to Head Start programs in the state.

U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito announced the funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources on Friday.

The individual grants are $5.4 million to Northern Panhandle Head Start Inc. and $4.5 million to Regional Education Service Agency 8.

Capito said in a news release from Manchin’s office that such programs have been important in setting young people on successful paths.

Manchin said in the release that the funding will help provide access to education, health and social services necessary for families and children to thrive.

Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.