At the heart of our mission at Encompass is making high-quality early education and care both accessible and affordable for families. We do this through our tuition assistance program that helps ensure families in need don’t pay more than 10-15% of their household income on child care. Individual donations as well as grants support the nearly $500,000 invested into this support annually for over 400 children receiving assistance.
In today’s challenging economic landscape, families often find themselves grappling with the high costs of quality childcare. For many, Encompass provides not just care, but a lifeline. Through our tuition assistance program, families are able to access high-quality childcare that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Without quality care, they would be challenged to afford necessities for their family and maintain long-term employment. This is exemplified in the experiences of parents like Brianna and Alexis, who share how Encompass has transformed their family’s lives.
Supporting families
Brianna has been bringing her sons, Jameson (2) and Calvin (5 months), to Encompass since they were infants. The care and attention her children receive are reflected in their excitement for each day at the center. “JJ loves the staff and the outdoor activities, while Calvin is always happy in the infant room,” Brianna shares. The joy her children feel at drop-off is a testament to the nurturing environment at Encompass, where quality care is the priority.
For Alexis, the journey is similar, having enrolled her son Adrian (2) just three months ago. Adrian thrives in a creative environment, enjoying art projects and making friends. “He loves getting messy and experiencing new things,” Alexis explains. The supportive atmosphere at Encompass is crucial for both children and their parents.
However, the financial implications of childcare can be daunting. Brianna notes that child care can feel like a second mortgage, with costs that stretch family budgets thin. The tuition assistance she receives has been a game changer, allowing her to afford high-quality care for her children. “It’s made a huge impact financially,” she explains. “I can comfortably pay for child care and still have money left for family activities.”
For Alexis, tuition assistance is what keeps their family afloat. “If I had to pay for child care, I wouldn’t be able to work,” she reveals. As a single parent, Alexis finds herself in a precarious position, earning too much for government assistance but not enough to cover all her expenses. Without the tuition assistance from Encompass, she would struggle to afford rent, let alone child care. “I’d have to live with someone or move around,” she says, reflecting on the stress that comes with inadequate support.
Creating opportunities for family connections
With the relief provided by tuition assistance, both Brianna and Alexis can engage more actively in community activities and focus on their children’s well-being. Brianna notes, “We’re not as stressed about finances, which allows us to build memories together as a family.”
Alexis echoes this sentiment, “I couldn’t work if I didn’t have this support. It allows me to be stable and present for Adrian.” The security provided by Encompass enables her to maintain her job and foster a nurturing environment for her son.
Gratitude for supporters
Both parents express heartfelt gratitude to those who contribute to Encompass. Brianna urges donors, “Thank you for your work to help families afford top-of-the-line child care. It has provided such relief, allowing us to focus on what truly matters.”
Alexis adds, “You’re donating to one of the most essential programs for our workforce. Without this support, our economy would be worse off, and we wouldn’t have as many people able to work.” The impact of these contributions extends far beyond individual families; it strengthens the entire community.
Tuition assistance at Encompass is not just about alleviating financial stress; it is about empowering families to prioritize their children’s development and well-being while also enjoying the richness of family life. As more families like Brianna’s and Alexis’s benefit from these programs, the impact of Encompass ripples through the community, creating a brighter future for both parents and children alike. In a world where quality childcare can often feel out of reach, Encompass stands behind 105 years of experience and support for families navigating these challenges.
