• About four LUCDA students will have one year’s tuition paid.
Two weeks ago, news was shared of a United Way grant of $2,308 to Lincoln Uinta Child Development Association (LUCDA), which will provide families with scholarships. Merinda Harmon, LUCDA Business Manager, shares some more details about the needed funding.
United Way has strict criteria that has to be met to receive any grants. “They do quite a lot to ensure the money they gives supports programs that meet their criteria, and they hold the nonprofit very accountable for those funds,” shares Harmon.
One of the most exciting outcomes of providing scholarships to students is the opportunity to open doors to quality early childhood education for families who may face financial barriers. For many families, the cost of preschool can be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Harmon says, “The amount of funding we’ve received is enough to provide scholarships to about four families for one academic year.” United Way’s support will allow these families to access high-quality educational programs, removing this obstacle from their path. Additionally, various income-based programs, such as Head Start and TANF, are available for those in need. LUCDA also offers tuition waivers for children requiring special services identified through free screenings. Businesses are welcome to contribute to the scholarship fund, allowing the community to actively participate in supporting the early childhood education of these students.
Harmon, who has been a part of the LUCDA team for 11.5 years, embodies the commitment to early childhood education. Her passion for learning and the positive impact of the program on her own children inspired her to become involved in early childhood education. Her journey from an involved parent to a dedicated staff member speaks volumes about the organization’s commitment to nurturing a love for learning from a young age.
Harmon says that this early development and education is important because it “capitalizes on a period of rich brain development for children and, when it is of good quality, can help them achieve their full potential. It can lay the foundation for good health and nutrition, learning and educational success, social-emotional learning, and economic productivity throughout life. Also encouraging families to take an active role in their child’s education early can really make a difference.
