Scholarship Program — Child Care Links

Access to quality early childhood education is one of the most important factors in helping children develop the skills they need for lifelong success. Through the Scholarship Program, Child Care Links ensures that families in Reno County, particularly those facing financial hardship, can access licensed, high-quality childcare. United Way of Reno County funding plays a critical role in making this support possible, helping children build a strong foundation while supporting parents in their work, education, and family responsibilities.

The Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to families based on income guidelines that go beyond state DCF limits, including ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families—those working hard but struggling to make ends meet. Assistance covers 30–70% of childcare fees, paid directly to the provider, while families cover the remainder. Eligible parents must be working, attending school, or experiencing other hardships such as medical crises. By reducing the cost barrier to high-quality childcare, the program ensures that all children have access to safe, supportive learning environments.

“High-quality early care plays a crucial role in shaping children’s development and preparing them for the future,” said Beth Carlton, Executive Director of Child Care Links. “For ALICE families, the challenge of paying for childcare can be overwhelming. Our Scholarship Program helps bridge that gap so children can thrive and parents can maintain stability.”

This program goes beyond providing childcare—it fosters social-emotional growth, cognitive and problem-solving skills, communication, creativity, and independence. These early lessons set children on a path toward confidence, resilience, and leadership, preparing them to succeed in school, their communities, and eventually their careers.

Collaboration is key to the program’s success. Child Care Links works closely with area childcare centers, home-based providers, Boys & Girls Clubs, Hutchinson Recreation, and other local organizations to ensure families are aware of the program and can easily access it. Providers submit attendance sheets each month, allowing for timely, accurate scholarship payments. This coordination creates a seamless support system that benefits both children and families.

Thanks to United Way funding, Child Care Links aims to serve more than 30 families in Reno County in the coming year, ensuring children from ALICE and other income-constrained households have access to quality early education. By investing in these families, United Way helps build a stronger, more equitable community where children can grow, learn, and thrive, and parents can work toward financial stability.

“United Way’s support makes this program possible,” Carlton added. “Together, we’re helping children reach their potential and giving families the support they need to succeed. Every scholarship we provide is an investment in the future of Reno County.”

To learn more about the Scholarship Program or Child Care Links, visit www.childcarelink.org

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