The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has committed to aiding early childhood providers and families with young children by making a historic investment of approximately $23 million in the Franklin County RISE initiative. This “whole system approach” is funded by Franklin County and the City of Columbus, and is administered by Action for Children. Action for Children is a local child care resource and referral agency that provides services to families throughout central Ohio. Statements released by the Commissioners indicate the funds will be allocated for the following purposes:

• early learning scholarships up to $10,000 for families with incomes between 142% to 300% of the federal poverty line;
• incentive payments for licensed child care centers and family child care homes; and
• rental support for child care workers.