Early Learning Coalition of Marion County officials said families in need of child care assistance can apply through a state-funded program called School Readiness.
According to a news release from the coalition, the School Readiness program helps “working parents, students, and job seekers afford quality child care while they work, attend school, or participate in job training.”
Coalition officials said the funding covers a portion of child care costs for eligible families with children from birth through age 13.
In the release, CEO LaTrisha Sims said, “This time last year, families were being placed on a waitlist. We’re fortunate not to be in that situation now, and we don’t want eligible families to miss this opportunity. Applying right away is important to ensure services can begin before summer and within this fiscal year.”
Officials said eligibility for School Readiness depends on several factors, including household income, family size, employment or educational status and funding availability.
Countywide, officials said there are nearly 100 School Readiness child care providers.
Applications are available online at ELC-Marion.org/florida-school-readiness. Officials urge families to apply early, noting that funding is based on eligibility and availability.
For more information, call 352-369-2315 or visit elc-marion.org.
Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com
This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Marion County families can apply for School Readiness child care aid
Reporting by Austin L. Miller, Ocala Star-Banner / Ocala Star-Banner
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