CINCINNATI -- Ten nonprofits are in the running for $150,000 in grants to support childhood literacy programs in impoverished neighborhoods around the Tri-State.
Scripps Howard Foundation, Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation and WCPO 9 On Your Side invited local nonprofits to apply for $150,000 in family literacy grants earlier this month.
Representatives from each organization reviewed the applicants and narrowed the field. These 10 semifinalists have until Feb. 21 to submit a full grant application:
- Bellevue Independent Schools
- Brighton Center, Inc.
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
- Cincinnati Early Learning Centers
- FamiliesFORWARD
- Melodic Connections
- Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission
- Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County Foundation
- The Children's Home of Cincinnati, Inc.
- YWCA Greater Cincinnati
They'll be asked how they would use the funding to work with parents to foster their children’s language skills from birth through preschool.
In their first three years, children begin learning concepts that will help them in learning to read. During this time, it's important for children to begin developing vocabulary. Parents can foster literacy by reading books to their children, talking to children, teaching them songs and other activities to prepare them to read and write.
Up to five finalists will be announced March 15.
A grant of $100,000 will be awarded to a single nonprofit that empowers parents with skills, confidence and tools to help their children develop emergent literacy and language skills. The program must be ongoing, serve families living in poverty and develop deep relationships with parents.
Another grant of $50,000 will be awarded to a finalist.
Winners will be announced during the Scripps Howard Awards, the annual journalism recognition program presented by Scripps Howard Foundation, at Memorial Hall in Over-the-Rhine on April 19. WCPO 9 On Your Side will stream the Scripps Howard Awards show on its website April 19 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Eastern time.
