Governor Kim Reynolds announced on March 10 grant awards totaling $5.2 million to expand 19 child care and preschool program partnerships across Iowa. This marks the second round of funding through the Continuum of Care grant program, which aims to strengthen early childhood education by supporting collaborations between preschools and licensed child care centers.
The initiative is designed to address gaps in full-day care for young children, particularly 4-year-olds, by encouraging creative solutions that benefit both families and the workforce. “By working together to best support the families and children they serve, preschool programs and child care centers can ensure 4-year-olds benefit from full-day care and early learning opportunities,” said Governor Reynolds. “The types of creative solutions these grants encourage give working parents more options and keep Iowa’s workforce strong.”
According to the official website, notable personnel for the Iowa Governor include Governor Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer according to the official website. The governor provides statewide leadership to Iowa residents according to the official website.
The Continuum of Care grants offer up to $300,000 over three years for each partnership between Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program sites and licensed child care centers. These funds are intended to help programs provide seamless, full-day services by supporting staffing needs, extending hours of operation, and improving transportation options. The Notice of Intent to Award has been posted on the Health & Human Services Funding Opportunities page.
This investment will further support a strong early care environment while helping working families prepare their children for school readiness. A third round of Continuum of Care grants is expected this fall for expansions during the 2026-2027 school year.
The Iowa Governor operates from the State Capitol in Des Moines according to the official website, engaging in state governance and supporting public initiatives such as food assistance programs according to the official website. The office serves residents across Iowa with leadership from both Governor Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer according to the official website.
