Limited Availability for Free or Discounted Childcare in Bath County
Families in Bath County, VA, Can Access Affordable Childcare at Highland Children’s House
In an exciting development for families in Bath County, Virginia, the Highland Children’s House has opened its doors and is now offering an invaluable opportunity for parents seeking affordable childcare options for their preschoolers. As the county’s first licensed facility, Highland Children’s House is striving to provide support for families, especially those who may be facing financial challenges.
Operated in Hot Springs, VA, this center has received state funding to offer 10 spots for preschoolers aged three and above, with approximately six of those spots still available. These spots aim to help prepare children for the next big step: kindergarten.
The financial structure for families looking to enroll their children is designed to ensure that those with limited resources are able to access these essential services. Families earning between 0% to 100% of the federal poverty line will have a completely free experience, with no co-pay required. For families whose income falls between 100% and 200% of the poverty line, a co-pay of applies. Finally, families at 300% of the federal poverty line will be responsible for a maximum monthly payment of 0.
Denise Ellis, the Director of Early Learning Strategies for the United Way of Roanoke Valley, emphasizes the importance of childcare as a cornerstone for economic development, particularly in rural areas like Bath County. “Childcare really is kind of the backbone and the catalyst of economic development in counties, especially more rural counties like Bath. So we want to provide this resource so parents can work and can support their families and really improve the outcome for children and families in the county,” Ellis said, in a statement that underlines the significance of accessible childcare services for the community.
Having opened just this past summer, Highland Children’s House is committed to being a beacon of support for local families. Laura Baker, the center’s director, expresses her enthusiasm about the program. “I am so overwhelmed and excited about the fact that, like this program is here, you know, free childcare or low cost, and you don’t get that everywhere,” she stated. Baker is not only passionate about the program but is also actively assisting parents in the application process to secure funding. “To come to somebody and help them with the application, or to bring a paper application so we can at least get that started, I just think they need to know that we’re here to support the community and not to make them struggle more,” she added.
Parents interested in applying for these subsidized childcare spots can easily do so online through Smart2Start. For those who prefer in-person assistance, the center, located at 49 Panther Drive, Hot Springs, VA 24445, welcomes visits. Parents can also reach the facility by telephone at (540) 608-2030.
It’s essential to note that the deadline to submit applications for this funding is August 31. However, if all the spots are filled, there’s a silver lining: Ellis mentioned that additional funding could become available throughout the year. Highland Children’s House is working closely with the Bath County Department of Social Services to secure more subsidies, making it likely that more families can benefit from this program in the future.
In addition to offering preschool care, Highland Children’s House caters to a broader age range. They provide care for infants starting at just six weeks old and extend their services up to children aged 12. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate childcare needs but also nurtures the development of young children in a supportive and enriching environment.
As parents navigate the challenges of balancing work and family life, Highland Children’s House stands ready to provide essential resources and support, fostering a brighter future for Bath County families. With such efforts in place, the community can look forward to a more stable and supportive environment for the next generation.
For further details and updates on the program, be sure to stay connected with local news outlets and the Highland Children’s House website. The future looks promising, and it’s encouraging to see our communities come together for the welfare of children and families.
