Case Study

As one Coalition Resource and Eligibility Specialist explained, “There are success stories that may not have the drama and immediacy of some stories but in my opinion these are by far the greater successes." They are the stories of mere survival day to day—parents paying bills, caring for the children, telling me that ‘My baby got all As.’ or ‘My child made the ball team’ or ‘I got a letter of appreciation at work.’ or ‘My boss told me I did well.’ or ‘I’ve been on my job for three years now.’ or even, ‘I’m going back to school.’ Success stories include those about parents who get up each day, feed and care for their children and get them ready for school or child care, go to work or school themselves, and at the end of the day they come home, care for their homes and family and eventually get some sleep to prepare for another day like the day before. They are mother/father, provider, teacher, supporter, friend, wiper of tears and sharer of laughter, example, cheerleader, coach, chauffeur, tutor, chef, nurse, reader of stories, singer of songs, maker of rules, dispenser of consequences and unconditional love, and so very much more.“

She goes on to cite a specific example: “I will cite our own Anita* as an example who is all of these things. Anita is the mother of four children ranging in age from 15 years to the youngest at 4. One of her children is disabled. While she used to be a client, she is now self-sufficient. She was found eligible for, and now lives in her own Habitat for Humanity home, works a full time job with the Coalition, is a full time mom and homemaker. Each day she comes to work with a smiling face and willingness to go beyond her job description to help both customers and fellow staff members in any way she can. I know she must sometimes feel tired or discouraged, but she brings a cheerful, kind and caring presence to our office no matter what her day may be like personally.”

* Not actual name

Financial Assistance for Child Care

The Early Learning Coalition of Santa Rosa County offers qualified parents financial assistance for child care with contracted child care facilities in our local area. Services include extended-day, extended-year, and school age care to support parents in their efforts toward self-sufficiency. Parents eligible for financial assistance may choose child care services from any of the Coalition’s contracted providers.

Studies of high-quality early childhood programs demonstrate that they are especially beneficial to children from economically disadvantaged households. The Coalition works closely with these providers to ensure the provision of:

  • Research-based early learning activities and instruction
  • Developmentally appropriate curriculum
  • Literacy programs
  • Character development programs
  • Healthy and safe environments
  • Appropriate staff-to-child ratios
  • Personnel with required qualifications
  • Family-friendly environment that supports parent involvement opportunities
  • Parent support services

Click here to see if you qualify for assistance, you may go to or call us to make an appointment.

Milton or North Santa Rosa County: 850-983-5313
South Santa Rosa County: 850-916-5424

The Coalition also accepts referrals for childcare assistance from the Department of Children and Families and from the Regional Workforce Development Boards.