Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater is a multi-jurisdictional collaboration comprised of three localities: City of Franklin, Southampton County and Isle of Wight County.

Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater and its partners have consistently focused on evidence-based practices and models to make decisions, which improve the lives of children in Western Tidewater.

The formation of SBWT began in 2003 with a group of citizens from the City of Franklin and Southampton County who had a vision for the economic future of the region.

With more interest in this program, the initial alliance grew from Franklin-Southampton Alliance to the Early Childhood Commission to Smart Beginnings Western Tidewater.

SBWT places a high priority on identifying and supporting programs that promote excellence in helping children and families.

We are committed to helping children in Western Tidewater enter school healthy and ready to learn!