We value all children & families of Lake County

The Early Learning Coalition of Lake County has oversight of the School Readiness Program and the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) Program in Lake County. This includes funding, monitoring, contract management, and service provision. The Coalition reports to the Division of Early Learning who in turn reports to the state and federal government on the utilization of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and other state general revenue dollars.

A primary focus of the Coalition is the improvement in the level of quality for early childhood education in Lake County. Through quality initiatives such as increased training opportunities, scholarships, accreditation programs and grants, the Coalition is committed to support any early education provider that is driven to improve quality and availability of services in the community. The Coalition continues to develop innovative programs and services to ensure that all Lake County’s children are ready to learn.

The CCR&R program is a “front door” to all child care, early learning programs or community resources available to families in the area. Through the CCR&R program, families may find assistance applying for school readiness or voluntary prekindergarten programs. Further, families with children who have disabilities or special health care needs may be assisted in selecting a provider to meet their needs. Child care and early learning information offered to educate families regarding the various early learning opportunities available to them. This service increases parental choice by helping families identify quality early learning programs and locate a provider that meets the family’s individual needs. All families receiving Child Care Resource and Referral services will be contacted to complete a voluntary survey to gauge your customer service experience with our office. All responses are anonymous and confidential and will not affect your services.

The Coalition also supports potential and current providers. We are available to offer helpful information and guidance about starting a new child care program. Additionally, we are eager to assist all child care providers in Lake County with questions about the VPK and School Readiness programs and/or guidance on enhancing services to your children and families. For more information, please contact our CCR&R Coordinator at (352) 315-6690.

Contact Information
Early Learning Coalition of Lake County
(352) 435-0566

Operating/Walk In Hours
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. By Appointment Only
Friday - Staff Hours 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Closed to the Public

Child Care Resource and Referral Hours
(352) 435-0566
Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Email Questions to familyportal@elclc.org