Thrive By 5 Louisville Family Access Scholarships
Quality child care should not be out of reach.
You want what’s best for your child. We’re here to help you give them a strong start. High-quality early learning helps children build language, confidence, and early skills for kindergarten. Thrive By 5 Louisville can help you find child care and determine whether you qualify for the Family Access Scholarships pilot* program.
Early Learning Matters
A child’s brain grows fastest in the first five years. Nurturing care, play, and a steady routine help children learn and grow. In a strong early learning program, children can:
- Build language and early learning skills
- Learn social skills and make friends
- Feel safe with caring adults and daily routines
- Be ready for kindergarten
Apply Online
Want to see if you qualify? Take a 3-minute survey using Mirza, an online tool that helps you check eligibility and keeps your information secure. If you qualify, complete the application in Mirza.
If you’re worried about cost, you’re not alone
Many Louisville families want child care but cannot afford it. You do not have to figure this out on your own. A Family Navigator can help you understand your options and see if you qualify for tuition support through the Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) or a Thrive By 5 Family Access Scholarship.
What is a Thrive By 5 Family Access Scholarship?
Family Access Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to qualifying families. In this pilot* program, 75 scholarships are available at each of the three levels, for a total of 225. Once awarded, scholarships continue until a child enters kindergarten, even if the family’s income later rises above the eligibility limit.
Some families may qualify for a full or partial scholarship.
You may qualify if:
- Your child is 3 or 4 years old
- Your child has not been enrolled in child care in the last six months
- You live in Jefferson County, Kentucky
- Your child will attend a licensed child care center full-time
- Your household income falls within the program guidelines
Scholarship Estimate
The scholarship amount is based on household income. Families may qualify for a scholarship of up to 100%.
Example: Family of 4
Here is an example for a household of four. Your amount may be different based on your family size and income.
Household Annual Income:
Below $85,788
Family Annual Financial Responsibility:
$0
Household Annual Income:
$85,789 – $99,000
Family Annual Financial Responsibility:
$3,250
Household Annual Income:
up to $99,001-$132,000
Family Annual Financial Responsibility:
$6,500
This is an estimate for planning purposes only and does not guarantee funding or eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get Started?
To get started, check your eligibility here via Mirza. We partner with Mirza to provide a secure platform for determining qualification and completing your online application.
What Information Will Thrive’s Family Navigators Ask for?
Here is the information you’ll need to prepare:
- How many people live in your household
- Household income before taxes (pay stubs, benefits letter, or tax info)
- Your child’s age and your contact information
- Your child’s birth certificate and a parent or guardian’s identification, such as a driver’s license
Do I Have to Pick a Child Care Program First?
You will need to choose a Thrive Quality+ provider with an open spot. If you haven’t picked a center, your Navigator can help you find options that match your location, schedule, and what matters to you.
What if I Work Nights, Weekends, or Have a Changing Schedule?
Tell us. We will look for options that fit your hours and transportation reality. If the “perfect” option is unavailable, we will help you compare the best available options.
Can I Receive Assistance in My Native Language?
Absolutely. Our Family Navigators speak English and Spanish. We use translation services for other languages.