| By Big Radio News Staff |

YWCA Rock County says it received a $98,516 grant it will use to expand its Child Care Program.

The funding, provided by the federal American Rescue Plan Act, will go toward expanding the YWCA’s child care offerings to 2- and 3-year-olds with a focus on families living on Janesville’s south side.

The Wisconsin Early Childhood Association classifies the city’s south side as a child care desert, meaning that for every available child care slot, there are at least three children who need it. The YWCA’s expanded programming would provide a nurturing environment where kids can thrive during their early years.

The organization says it’s still about $65,000 short of fully funding the program expansion, but YWCA officials believe they can reach their target through other grants, donors and funding resources.