Brighter Futures Fund

Gateway is raising funds to continue serving local families - including those who need extra support. As a nonprofit, every bit helps keep our doors open to children and families, our classrooms safe, and our teachers equipped to give each child the best start possible. Gateway Developmental Learning Center seeks support to establish a sliding fee scale and partial scholarship program for low-income families who do not qualify for or are waiting to receive Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) assistance. In Madison County, demand for affordable child care exceeds available funding, leaving many working families without access to reliable, high-quality care.

In Madison County, active CCDF vouchers have dropped from 1,103 just 12 months ago to only 723, while approximately 650 children remain on a waiting list with no clear timeline for assistance. Behind these numbers are families facing impossible choices - leaving jobs, reducing hours, or placing children in unstable care situations. Without access to reliable, high-quality early education, children miss critical opportunities to build the skills they need for kindergarten and long-term success.

This initiative will bridge the gap by providing temporary tuition assistance, allowing children to enroll immediately and begin benefiting from a safe, nurturing early learning environment while families work toward securing long-term funding. Scholarships will be based on household income and need, supporting parents in maintaining employment and reducing disruptions in care.

Beyond financial assistance, Gateway will connect families to community resources that promote long-term stability, including budgeting and financial literacy programs, job search support, workforce training, and early intervention services. These connections help address the root causes of instability while supporting child development.

By reducing financial barriers and increasing access to quality early education, this program will improve school readiness, strengthen workforce participation, and promote greater family stability - ensuring children have the foundation needed to succeed.

❤️ 100% of your gift stays local

💜 Helps children ages 6 weeks–12 years

💙 Supports inclusive, high-quality early education

💪Let’s show what our community can do when we come together! 💪