A government agency that’s focused on helping very young children is offering small grants. First 5 Shasta, which is funded by a tobacco tax, is accepting applications for grants of up to $700 to any local organization, group or individual to pay for the costs of events and activities during Week of the Young Child in April. Requests are also being accepted for children’s books, which can be acquired in addition to or instead of the grant funds. Applications will be accepted through January 10th at first5shasta.org/funding. Anyone who wants to see first hand what First 5 Shasta is all about can stop in for their holiday open house Wednesday from 10 to noon at 393 Park Marina Circle.