The pilot of Oregon’s new Every Child Belongs (ECB) Connect system is launching in select regions starting July 2025, with phased expansion through July 2026. Co-developed by DELC and the Oregon Infant Mental Health Association (ORIMHA) with feedback from early learning partners, ECB Connect offers a centralized way for child care providers to request support when a child is at risk of suspension or expulsion.
This effort aligns with a new law effective July 2026 that prohibits suspensions and expulsions in early learning settings. Through ECB Connect, providers may be connected to technical assistance, Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health consultation (IECMHC), Early Intervention/ECSE, or other regionally coordinated services. Every Child Belongs helps keep children connected to safe, supportive environments where they can grow and thrive.
Partners in participating regions will receive access to:
- Online support request forms
- Training materials and guidance
- Regional coordination tools
- Engagement opportunities through office hours and feedback sessions
Over the weeks ahead we will be continuing to build awareness, launch trainings with early access regions, and translate information. As system testing continues, we appreciate the feedback of partners and communities as we refine the consultation approach. This will help ECB to build a responsive service in lead up to a full statewide launch next year.
We are working closely with Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies, IECMHC providers, and other community groups to ensure a phased and equitable rollout that meets the needs of providers and families across Oregon.
Learn more and stay updated at: Visit the everychildbelongs.org website