Florida School Readiness Program
Families in Florida who are trying to work or get training to work may be eligible for financial assistance through School Readiness Program.
These services range from extended day to extended year, and school age care for children.
Eligible families include those who
- are at or below 148% of the federal poverty level — about $34,080 a year for a family of three AND
- are employed at least 20 hours per week OR a student taking at least 12 credit hours.
Depending on the family income, you will pay a fee for each child for whom you receive financial assistance. The co-payment is based on family income and family size and is paid directly to the child care provider.
How can I get free child care in Florida? #
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Families need to apply through Florida's Early Learning Family Portal. If you are potentially eligible, you will be placed on the waitlist until enrollment occurs, depending on funding availability.
To learn about eligibility criteria and find out more, contact your county’s early learning coalition. You can also call the Child Care Resource and Referral Network at 1-866-357-3239.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) #
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Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) is a free pre-kindergarten program for 4 and 5-year-olds who reside in Florida. Enrollment is based on the county in which you want to attend, NOT on which county you live.
There is no income eligibility requirement for families to participate in this FREE Pre-K program. To be eligible, children must be Florida residents and turn 4 years old by September 1 of the program year.
Child & Family Resources
(904) 208-2040