Kinder + - Seeking to address barriers to kindergarten attendance in 2010

Kinder + is a program designed to facilitate access to 4 year old kindergarten for all children in Boroondara. One of the purposes of this program is to make 4 year old kindergarten both affordable and accessible for all Boroondara families.

What does Kinder + offer?

Kinder + assists with the gap for up to a maximum value of $250 per child per year for eligible families.

Families who hold a Health Care Card or Pension Concession Card are entitled to year a State Government rebate of $820 which covers the cost of the first 10 hours of 4 year old kindergarten, making it free. Many 4 year old programs offer longer hours which may be charged for.

Link http://www.education.vic.gov.au/ecsmanagement/careankinder/funding/subsidy.htm

The program has two key aspects. The first aspect is fee support in the form of a subsidy.

A Kinder + subsidy may be available for families who are:

• On low incomes and hold a Health Care Card, Pension Concession Card or a Temporary Protection/Humanitarian Visa.
• Or are experiencing economic or social hardship.
  

The second aspect of Kinder + is to provide assistance to families through the network of local community support agencies.

What We cover

• Children currently attending a 4 year old funded kindergarten program
• 30 Community managed kindergartens located in Boroondara
• 6 long day care centres operating a funded 4 year old program

What we don’t Cover

• 3 year old kindergarten
• Private centres or non funded programs
  

All children should have the opportunity to attend kindergarten. Kindergarten is a vital part of a child’s development. Many children in our local community may miss out on this opportunity. Foundation Boroondara together with Camcare, the Rotary Club of Balwyn and the Rotary Club of Hawthorn will work in partnership to ensure all 4 year old children have the best start in life by attending kindergarten prior to commencing primary school.

Kinder + is operated by Foundation Boroondara and is a joint initiative with Camcare, the Rotary Club of Balwyn and the Rotary Club of Hawthorn.

Applications for 2010

• Early applications will be accepted from November 9 until November 20 2009 for 2010 for families who hold low income cards. The funds will be forwarded in February 2010.
• Application closing dates for 2010 : February 26, April 30, August 27

How to apply

At the kindergarten you either attend (please see attached list):



Or With a community support agency (please see attached)






For further information contact the Program Officer, Denise Whitelaw on 9278 4947.

Privacy notice: The personal information requested on applications is to enable us to respond to you, to inform potential supporters of the work of Foundation Boroondara and to ensure we maintain accurate details. We respect your privacy. Personal information is only used for payments and informing you of our activities.

Sponsors: Bendigo Bank & First National Real Estates