Child care resources plentiful

Manatee parents have many resources to help them find quality childcare and financial assistance to help pay the bills.

The Early Learning Coalition, a group of local community leaders that oversees how state funds are spent to provide subsidized childcare, works closely with Resource Connection for Kids to provide a range of services.

The coalition’s Resource and Referral Services program provides free listings of child care services and a referral database that allows families to receive personalized lists that meet their needs.

The resource and referral program also offers free training and technical assistance to childcare providers.

Visit the coalition office at 3526 Ninth St. W., Suite 200, or call (941) 757-2910 for more information. You also can access services through the coalition’s Web site at www.elc-manatee.org. Resource Connections for Kids also provides a referral service for childcare and early learning programs as well. Childcare choices range from a family or home-based care program to a center-based pre-school. Providers can be not-for-profit, faith-based or for-profit organizations.

Staff recommends parents visit several child care providers before selecting one to care for their children.

Resource Connection also qualifies families for child care financial assistance. Eligibility requirements include:

n Employed and works more than 20 hours a week

n Go to school/works more than 30 hours a week

n Gross annual income is not greater than:

Family of 2 - $25,660

Family of 3 - $32,180

Family of 4 - $38,700

Family of 5 - $45,220

Family of 6 - $51,740

For more information call (941) 745-5949. You can also stop by Resource Connection’s office at 302 Manatee Ave. E. or visit www.rc4k.org.