Resource Connection for Kids should be parents' first stop in looking for child care options in Manatee County. The nonprofit resource and referral center is the clearing house for all child care information in the county.
The agency is part of the Manatee Community Action Agency, formerly known as the Manatee Opportunity Council. Under the direction of Carol Hunt, Resource Connection has been serving Manatee families since 1985.
In addition to providing a data base of child care centers and parenting resources, the agency handles all applications for subsidized child care funds provided by Manatee County through a portion of property taxes dedicated to help children at risk.
To apply or learn about child care options, families can visit the Resource Connection at 302 Manatee Ave. E. or tour the agency's extensive Web site at www.rc4k.org for a list of services provided.
Families can register for financial assistance online or search the data base for child care centers that fit their needs.
Hunt advises parents to carefully investigate several centers before making a choice.
"It is imperative that families research inspection reports and licensing agreements," Hunt said. "They need to make several visits to child care centers when they are in session."
Resource Connection's Web site can help with that search.
The agency also provides the following checklist parents can use to evaluate centers during the selection process.
Jennifer said she wants to use the checklist to go with this brief introduction
Donna Wright, health and social services reporter, can be reached at 745-7049.
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