Last Updated: June 23, 2026

First 5 San Mateo County is committed to protecting the privacy of visitors to our website. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard information obtained through our website. This Privacy Policy applies only to information collected through our website and not to information collected offline or through other means. 

What Personal Information Do We Collect From People Who Visit Our Website?

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide when you complete an online form; subscribe to a newsletter or mailing list; register for an event; contact us by email or through our website; or otherwise communicate with us through the website. The information collected may include your name, email address, mailing address, telephone number, and any other information you choose to provide.

When Do We Collect Information?

We collect information when you voluntarily submit information through our website, subscribe to communications, complete a form, register for an event, or otherwise interact with our website.

How Do We Use Your Information?

We may use information collected through the website to respond to inquiries and requests; provide information about First 5 programs, services, events, and initiatives; distribute newsletters and other communications; improve the functionality and performance of our website; analyze website usage and trends; and fulfill any other purpose for which the information was provided.

How Do We Protect Your Information?

We maintain reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect information submitted through our website from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. Our website uses industry-standard security measures, including encrypted HTTPS connections where applicable, and we regularly monitor our systems for security vulnerabilities. We do not collect or process payment card information through this website.

Do We Use Cookies?

Yes. Cookies are small data files that are stored on your device through your web browser. We use cookies and similar technologies to remember user preferences and settings; improve website functionality and performance; understand how visitors use the website; compile aggregate statistics regarding website traffic and usage; and support website analytics services.

You may choose to disable cookies through your browser settings. However, disabling cookies may affect the functionality of certain features of the website.

Third-Party Disclosure

We do not sell personal information collected through our website. We may share limited information with third-party service providers that assist us in operating, maintaining, analyzing, or improving our website. Such providers may include website hosting providers, analytics providers, and technology vendors that support website operations. Any such disclosures are limited to the extent reasonably necessary to provide those services.

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites, partner organizations, government agencies, community resources, social media platforms, or other external services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices, content, or security of third-party websites. Users should review the privacy policies of any external websites they visit.

We may use analytics tools, including Google Analytics or similar services, to better understand how visitors use our website and to improve website functionality and user experience. These services may collect information such as IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited, referral sources, and usage patterns. Information collected is generally aggregated and used for website administration and performance analysis.

Opting Out

Users may control cookies through their browser settings. Information regarding Google’s data practices and available opt-out tools may be found through Google’s privacy and analytics settings.

California Online Privacy Protection Action (CalOPPA)

First 5 San Mateo County complies with the California Online Privacy Protection Act. Users may visit our website anonymously. A link to this Privacy Policy is available on our website and can be accessed from the website homepage or another prominent location. Any changes to this Privacy Policy will be posted on this page. Individuals may request correction of information they have voluntarily provided by emailing us. 

Do Not Track Signals

Our website currently responds to browser-based Do Not Track (“DNT”) signals only to the extent supported by the technologies used on the website. Because there is currently no universally accepted standard governing DNT signals, website functionality and third-party analytics services may not respond uniformly to such requests. Users may manage cookies and tracking technologies through browser settings and available opt-out tools.

Third-Party Tracking

The website may utilize third-party analytics services that collect information regarding website usage. These services help us understand website performance and improve user experience.

Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

Protecting children’s privacy is important. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under the age of 13 through our website without appropriate consent.

Fair Information Practices

The Fair Information Practice Principles form the foundation of privacy protection laws in the United States. In the event of a data breach involving personal information, First 5 San Mateo County will respond in accordance with applicable federal and California law, including any legally required notifications to affected individuals and governmental authorities. Notifications will be provided as required by law and within the timeframes prescribed by applicable law.

CAN-SPAM Act

We collect email addresses in order to respond to inquiries; provide requested information; distribute newsletters and program updates; and communicate regarding First 5 programs, services, events, and initiatives. 

To comply with applicable laws governing email communications, we agree to not use false or misleading subject lines or email addresses; include appropriate contact information in communications; honor unsubscribe requests when applicable; monitor third-party email service providers for compliance, if utilized; and promptly remove individuals from mailing lists upon request when legally required.

If at any time you wish to unsubscribe from future communications, you may follow the instructions included in the communication or contact us directly.

CONTACTING US

If there are any questions regarding this Privacy Policy, you may contact us at:

First 5 San Mateo County
1700 South El Camino Real, Suite 405
San Mateo, CA 94402

Email: first5smc@smcgov.org
Phone: (650) 372-9500

Website: https://first5sanmateo.org