Elkhart County legislators: New scholarships open to essential workers to help cover early child care, education costs

Posted by: Allison Vanatsky  | Friday, May 28, 2021

STATEHOUSE (May 28, 2021) – Elkhart County legislators encourage working families seeking high-quality early education and out-of-school programs for their children to apply for Build, Learn, Grow scholarships.

To receive a scholarship, one family member must qualify as an essential worker, like those who work in health care or food service, and their family must meet income eligibility requirements. Scholarships can be used for their child's early care and education, and summer learning or out-of-school care. State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) said the scholarship will cover 80% of child care costs for children up to age 12.

"Students may have fallen behind in their studies as a result of being out of the classroom and due to other disruptions caused by the pandemic," King said. "These programs can help them get back on track, and a scholarship can help pay the way."

Currently, there are 17 centers in Elkhart County participating in the program. State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) said more facilities can apply and will be added to the list upon registration.

"These scholarships will even cover some of the costs of daycares and preschools," Miller said. "Building a strong foundation at an early age prepares children for success, and if finances are an obstacle, these Build, Learn, Grow scholarships can really help."  

Applications are open through Oct. 31, 2021, and there are 50,000 scholarships available through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration on a first-come, first-served basis.

The application, list of eligible programs and income requirements for the Build, Learn, Grow scholarship fund are available at brighterfuturesindiana.org/scholarships/families. All Indiana essential businesses and operations are listed at coronavirus.in.gov/2496.htm.

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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48, which includes portions of Elkhart County.

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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49, which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.

Click here to download a high-resolution photo.