MiLeap Childcare Expansion Grants is sponsored by Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Provides funding to expand access to quality, affordable childcare in Michigan.

MiLeap grants Michigan childcare coalition’s funding to expand access to childcare Add Us On Google Add as a preferred source on Google LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Addressing Michigan’s childcare crisis takes a team effort, with local childcare coalitions leading the charge. $1 million in grant funding from the state is helping these groups continue their mission of bridging gaps to access and affordability.

The Capital Area Child Care Coalition (CACCC) is finding solutions to address shortfalls in childcare with a focus on providers doing the work. “They go into this field because they love working with kiddos, their focus on the curriculum development that is so key to hit those milestones, and yet they have to worry about the financing, accounting, and insurance,” said Emma Bostwick with Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP).

The coalition is made up of parents, providers, area leaders, and economic development groups like LEAP , Capital Area Michigan Works, and United Way of South-Central Michigan . A $100,000 award from the state is continuing its mission because if childcare doesn’t work, no one works. “They don’t know, or we haven’t communicated well enough to say hey, these resources are here for you to access,” said Bostwick.

Funding would support continued collaboration, marketing, and outreach efforts that support childcare providers. While also informing families on programs like Tri-Share Child Care and PreK for All . Jaqueline Taylor, owner of Little Dreamers Early Learning Center, says the coalition has been a lifeline, offering resources and support that helped her grow her business.

“We were able to grow our program from 30 to 60 families and now have over 5,000 square feet of space for our babies,” said Taylor. Taylor, a coalition member, says it’s all about uplifting and advocating. So childcare programs can expand, reach more families, and pay providers what they deserve.

“Compensate them at a rate that is attractive for our industry, especially for the handwork we’re doing every day,” said Taylor. The funding awarded to Michigan’s Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLeap) would also support upgrades to the CACCC’s online hub. It helps parents find childcare and also provides resources to childcare providers and employment.

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