Preschool/Childcare Grants
It is important that all children be offered the opportunity to attend preschool. In order to ensure that no child is kept out of preschool because families are not financially able to send them, Benton County Empowerment has made funds available to assist. Families applying for preschool scholarships must meet income eligibility guidelines. To be considered eligible, families must fall into the 141 - 200% federal poverty guidelines. There are several preschools and child care centers in the county who already have these funds in place to assist families. - Top -
 
Provider Reading Program
Childcare providers may participate in the Provider Reading Program. As part of this program the Child Care Coordinator visits childcare homes and centers each month to share a story as well as make some projects and involve the children in some fun activities. The theme varies each month and a packet of materials is left for the provider to work on throughout the rest of the month. Any provider wishing to participate in this literacy program should contact Heidi Pearson at ccc@bcempowerment.com. - Top -
 
Story Sacks
As part of our continuing effort to promote literacy activities in Benton County, Empowerment has purchased nearly 200 story sacks, which have been distributed to preschools and childcare centers in the county. These story sacks contain a book, a toy, recipes, projects and activities all relating to the theme of the story. Children are encouraged to check them out and take them home to share with their families. All centers and preschools in Benton County are invited to participate in this program. - Top -
 
Benton County Health Consultant
Benton County offers health consultants services to families with young children. Services available include:
* Health and safety information
* Home visits to answer questions and provide health consultations
* Health presentations
* Lead screening (call for information)
To schedule an appointment with the Benton County Health Consultant please call 319/472-6360.
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HAWK-I
Healthy kids are happy kids. They do well in school, have fun with their friends and they grow up well. Healthy And Well Kids in Iowa (HAWK-I), is a program that gives our kids that chance by making sure they have health care coverage. Thousands of Iowa's children qualify for this coverage. HAWK-I provides health care coverage for children ages 0-19. Depending on your income monthly fees range from $0 -$20 per month The HAWK-I application is short and easy to fill out. You will have to send in proof of your income with your application. Call 800/257-8563 to receive an application today.
Eligibility Requirements - 20% of earned income (including self-employment income) is not counted when comparing family income to the limits. The 20% deduction does not apply to unearned income such as child support, social security disability, or unemployment insurance benefits. After subtracting 20% or earned income look up your family's yearly countable income. If your yearly countable income is the same or less than the amount listed, your children could qualify for HAWK-I. - Top -

 
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