Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                           Contact: Wendy Williams,

                                                                                                           Community Relations Director

                                                                                                               Phone: 352-369-2315 x202

                                                                                                   Email: WWilliams@elc-marion.org

Child Care Financial Assistance Available

Marion County families should apply now for summer services

MARION COUNTY, FL, April 17, 2026: The Early Learning Coalition of Marion County is encouraging income‑eligible families who need help paying for child care to apply for School Readiness, a state‑funded child care assistance program. Funding is currently available, and families are urged to submit applications as soon as possible.

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. Assistance covers a portion of child care costs for eligible families with children from birth through age thirteen.

“Affordable child care is critical to families and to our local workforce,” said CEO LaTrisha Sims. “This time last year families were going onto 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.”

Eligibility for School Readiness is based on factors such as household income, family size, employment or educational status, and availability of funds. There are nearly 100 School Readiness child care providers throughout Marion County. Families can learn more and apply online at: ELC-Marion.org/florida-school-readiness. Assistance is subject to eligibility and funding availability. Applying early increases the likelihood of timely enrollment.

The Coalition’s mission is to equip every young child and family for success. They implement the Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), School Readiness, and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) programs on behalf of the Florida Department of Education Division of Early Learning plus additional complimentary programs that support parents as a child’s first and most important teacher. For more information, call 352-369-2315 or visit elc-marion.org.

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