BURLINGTON — Let’s Grow Kids (LGK) plans to award $400,000 in grants in 2020 to fund 15 to 20 Vermont childcare projects of various sizes across the state through its Make Way for Kids program. Those interested in applying are encouraged to participate in informational calls on Oct. 3 or Oct. 15 for details on eligibility and how to apply.
As part of its mission to ensure affordable access to high-quality childcare for all Vermont families who need it by 2025, LGK is working to increase the number of high-quality childcare spaces in the state. The Make Way for Kids program — launched in 2018 with the support of donors in Vermont and nationwide — provides grants and technical assistance to support childcare start-ups, expansions and quality improvements.
“Through Make Way for Kids, we’re leveraging philanthropy and partnering with local communities to give more kids access to high-quality early care and learning opportunities right now,” said LGK CEO Aly Richards.
This is the third round of the Make Way for Kids program. In 2018 and 2019, the program supported more than 40 childcare projects across Vermont including new and expanded child care programs in Bennington and Brattleboro; an expanded year-round child care center at Bolton Valley Resort; and a new center in Newport that opened its doors earlier this month.
The next round of Make Way for Kids will have two application deadlines (Dec. 11, 2019, and March 27, 2020). LGK staff who are experienced early childhood education leaders will provide technical assistance during the application process and grant period to support the strength of the application and the sustainability of the project.
Those interested in applying for Make Way for Kids grants are invited to attend an informational call by dialing in at 802-448-4854 on Thursday, Oct. 3, or Tuesday, Oct. 15, 1 p.m.. For more information, please visit letsgrowkids.org/MakeWayforKids