17 Jul Childcare zones grant update:
Last month, we announced that our Childcare Task Force was selected as a recipient of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and All in for Kansas Kids Child Care Zones grant. Today, we’re excited to share that $150,000 will be made available to support licensed childcare providers in our region.
The funding comes from the federal Preschool Development Birth through Five (PDG B-5) Renewal Grant, awarded to the state of Kansas in 2024 and administered by the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.
This grant will strengthen efforts to improve child care access and quality across McPherson and Marion counties. A key requirement of the program was regional collaboration with other child care initiatives. According to KDHE, Round One awardees were selected through a highly competitive application and interview process. Each recipient demonstrated a unique, regionally focused strategy for addressing child care challenges. McPherson and Marion counties were among just four regions chosen.
The funding will be used to assist licensed childcare providers with training, background checks, and technology upgrades. In addition, $75,000 is specifically designated to support infant and toddler care through stipends. Funding amounts will be proportional to each provider’s infant and toddler enrollment.
As the rising cost of child care continues to strain both families and providers, the McPherson County Community Foundation remains committed to expanding access and supporting quality care across our communities.
Want to make a contribution towards our county’s childcare sustainability? Support our DREAM Child Care Fund here!