Early Care Foundation of Pope County
Pope County
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To comply with bank requirements and prevent delays in deposits, all checks must be issued to West Central Initiative, with “Early Care Foundation of Pope County” in your check’s memo field.
Credit card payments will list West Central Initiative as the merchant on your bill but by using this donation page, your donation will be given to the Early Care Foundation of Pope County.
Designating West Central Initiative as the payee ensures that the Internal Revenue Service recognizes your tax-deductible contribution.
Overview
The Early Care Foundation of Pope County was created in 2023 by a group of leaders in our communities who wanted to create long-term child care solutions throughout Pope County.
Early Care Foundation of Pope County funds will be used for the growth and retention of early care in Pope County and available through a grant application process. Funds will be awarded to projects and initiatives for: training and professionalism, capacity and additional support, equipment and facility improvements, and awareness and appreciation.
Grant Application
Purpose: The Early Care Foundation of Pope County exists to strengthen children, families, and workforce in our communities through supporting early care organizations now and into the future.
Eligibility:
- Early care program must be located in Pope County
- Must be a licensed Rule 2 or Rule 3 early care provider or be in the process of becoming licensed, or actively providing early care services
- Be in good standing with license
Deadline:
The application period will be open between September 1 and October 15, 2025.
Applications are accepted in the spring and fall. Watch for updates on our Early Care Foundation of Pope County Facebook page.
Size of Grants:
Grants are generally between $500-$1,500
Focus Areas of Funding:
- Training/Professional Development
- Capacity/Additional Support
- Equipment/Facility Improvements
- Emergency Grants
- Curriculum & Enrichment Activities
- Mental Health/Wellness
- Other
Questions? Email jlphearts@gmail.com or call 320-634-3909
The application closed on October 15, 2025. The next grant round will open in Spring 2026. Please follow Early Care Foundation of Pope County of Facebook for updates on future grant rounds.