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Supporting Childcare: Good for Employees, Great for Business

The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County (ELC) is here to support families as they navigate the local childcare realm, searching for quality care for children under the age of five.

  • By The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County
  • | 11:57 a.m. November 20, 2024
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Affordable, accessible childcare supports a stable workforce, boosts the economy, and strengthens community well-being, benefiting everyone—not just those with young children. But the influx of new Suncoast residents has put a strain on the area’s already fragile childcare system. Understanding the landscape, The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County (ELC) is here to support families as they navigate the local childcare realm, searching for quality care for children under the age of five.  

Fewer slots for more children create barriers for parents to hold a full-time job.

To help eliminate obstacles, the ELC provides custom lists of childcare sites, a checklist for touring sites, the Look For The Stars rating tool, and support with enrollment in VPK (Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten.) With the cost of childcare so prohibitive for many families, the ELC guides income-eligible parents on how to apply for financial assistance. Sometimes, there is still no choice but to leave the workforce. 

Childcare issues are the #1 reason why parents leave their jobs, according to research from the Florida Chamber Foundation. A survey by the ELC’s newly formed Childcare Business Task Force found that 82% of employers said childcare costs are a challenge for employees. 

Recognizing this multi-pronged issue, Florida Representative Fiona McFarland and Senator Erin Grall sponsored a Childcare Tax Credit for employers. Businesses can now receive significant tax savings while supporting their employees’ childcare needs.


How does it work?

As of October 1, employers may submit applications to the Florida Department of Revenue requesting credit for childcare costs incurred based on the business’ taxable year. Tax credits are applicable at $300 per month for each eligible employee’s child or grandchild. Businesses can also claim a credit of up to 50% of the startup costs for operating a licensed childcare facility.

By seizing this opportunity, businesses can help close the childcare gap for their employees. Parents want to work, but they need affordable, reliable, and accessible childcare to do so.

The ELC Sarasota is here to guide you and your employees: elcsarasota.org

Sponsorship by Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County; the State of Florida and Florida Department of Education's Division of Early Learning.