Funding Awarded to Two Local Providers
In August 2023, the Ashland City Council adopted the Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program and authorized City staff to begin its implementation. This initiative aims to enhance childcare affordability, improve early learning access and support Ashland families.
Following the City Council’s approval, the City of Ashland launched the pilot grant program for childcare providers in September 2023. This pilot allowed local childcare and early learning providers to offer sliding scale scholarships to qualified low and moderate-income households seeking early childcare options. Due to the pilot's success and feedback from our partners, this year’s program expanded to include capacity-building investments. Examples of these investments include funding for additional educators and modest infrastructure improvements. The grant program is open to all licensed or certified preschools and daycare providers in Ashland, both non-profit and for-profit.
The program aligns with the Early Childhood Committee's goals to:
- Address Ashland’s need for expanded early childhood care services.
- Support households seeking affordability and financial stability.
- Attract and retain a local workforce by enhancing quality of life and affordability.
- Strengthen kindergarten readiness through collaboration with partners.
- Foster economic development in Ashland.
As of the end of the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the City has expended $95,000 of the funding identified in the 2023-2025 Biennium Budget, leaving $145,000 available for further investment in accessible, affordable early learning and childcare opportunities in Ashland. At the City Council Business meeting on August 20, 2024, the Council approved a recommendation to award a total of $140,000 of the remaining $145,000 to two grant applicants:
- Children’s World Montessori: $50,000 for sliding scale scholarships.
- Ashland Family YMCA: $90,000 for sliding scale scholarships, staffing, and behavioral support.
Heidi Hill, Director of the Ashland Family YMCA, commented, "Thanks to the City of Ashland Childcare Expansion Grant, the Y can offer top-quality preschool and childcare at tuition rates significantly below market value. This is a tremendous benefit for families and the community, as we support our next generation."
Michelle Keller, Director of Children’s World Montessori, stated, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to apply for the Child Care Grant for the families at our school. The Council's forward-thinking approach in creating this grant for families with young children is commendable. We are proud to help families with their childcare costs, especially in a community that values and supports early childhood care.”
Quarterly reports will be submitted by grant recipients to ensure effective program evaluation. Hyatt and the Ad Hoc Committee will continue to monitor the program and provide an annual summary, including scholarship data and recommendations, to the City Council.
For more information visit ashlandoregon.gov/EconomicDevelopmentGrants and click on the "Affordable Childcare Grant" tab.
“We are Better Together!”
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