Quality Care for Children announced a $2 million grant on Sept. 23 that will provide child‑care scholarships to at least 130 children in Atlanta and Clayton County. The funding, supplied by United Way of Greater Atlanta and the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation, is split between the PAACT (Promise All Atlanta Children Thrive) Scholarship for Atlanta and a newly created BOOST Economic Mobility Scholarship for Clayton County.
Helping Parents Stay in the Workforce
Child‑care costs in Georgia average more than $11,000 a year, a burden that can force parents—especially single mothers—to leave the labor market. Single mother Mia McKinney, who holds a master’s degree and two bachelor’s degrees, says the scholarship changed her life. “I think it changed the trajectory of where I thought I was going to have to go,” she said, noting that without assistance she would have struggled to find employment while caring for her son.
McKinney also warned that stereotypes about who needs financial help can hide the real pressures families face. “I have a master’s degree. I have two bachelor’s degrees. I own my home,” she explained. “Every now and again we all need a little bit of help.” She encourages other parents to apply without shame, reminding them that stewardship of their children includes seeking needed support.
Program Details and Eligibility
Families must earn at or below 85 % of the state median income to qualify. Eligible households contribute up to 7 % of their income toward weekly child‑care fees, with the scholarship covering the remaining cost within program limits. Scholarships are available for children younger than four until they become eligible for pre‑K, and can be used at any participating, quality‑rated provider.
Ellyn Cochran, president and CEO of Quality Care for Children, said the grant will support at least 65 children in each area. “We are so thrilled with the additional investment from the United Way of Greater Atlanta,” Cochran said, noting that more than 100 families were already on a waiting list before the Clayton County opportunity was widely publicized.
Impact on Child‑Care Providers
The infusion of scholarship funds also benefits child‑care providers by ensuring more reliable tuition revenue. In 2025, Quality Care for Children distributed more than $2.7 million in scholarships, assisting 491 children and supporting 284 child‑care programs across the region.
By bridging the gap between what families can afford and the true cost of quality care, the BOOST scholarships aim to keep parents in the workforce, strengthen families, and promote a thriving community.
How to Apply
Parents interested in the scholarships should contact Quality Care for Children directly or visit their website for application details. The organization emphasizes that applying is a sign of responsible parenting, not a mark of failure.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
