The Mason County Economic Development Council in partnership with Mason Matters was awarded Washington State Department of Commerce funding through the Child Care Partnership Grant. Child Care Partnership Grants support development of local strategic plans to expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare. The number of available childcare slots in Mason County is declining while demand continues to grow.
Mason County Childcare Coalition
Coalition Vision Statement
”To build a lasting childcare system in Mason County that is affordable, accessible, and supported through shared commitment, sustainable funding, and local collaboration.”
Community Engagement Presentations
As part of the Child Care Partnership Grant, we have hosted several community engagement events to share findings from the Mason County Childcare Needs Survey, along with resources and information related to workforce development and funding opportunities to expand childcare facilities. To view the full presentation, please select one of the links below.
As we begin drafting the final assessment, our goal is to gather as much feedback as possible on the survey results and community needs. If you would like to add additional comments or ask questions, please email Tiana@choosemason.com.
Mason County Childcare Coalition Meeting #5 (read more) – March 2026
The Mason County Childcare Coalition focused on expanding childcare capacity, exploring workforce development pathways, and highlighting local solutions to support families and providers.Mason County Childcare Coalition Meeting #4 (read more) – February 2026
The Mason County Childcare Coalition worked on strengthening the childcare workforce pipeline, reviewing funding pathways, and aligning legislative advocacy to support local families and providers.Mason County Childcare Coalition Meeting #3 (read more) – January 2026
Coalition met to transition from discussing challenges to outlining concrete strategies for expanding access, strengthening the workforce, and securing sustained funding. Partners also explored workforce development linkages and reinforced the importance of childcare as economic infrastructure.Mason County Childcare Coalition Meeting #2 Recap (read more) – November 2025
Coalition focused on expanding childcare access across the county. Representative Travis Couture provided an overview of statewide policy conditions, while Julie Knott of Mason Matters facilitated a SWOT analysis to inform the coalition’s strategic planning efforts.Childcare Coalition Kickoff Meeting(read more) – October 2025
The Mason County Childcare Coalition officially launched its strategic planning initiative with a kickoff meeting that brought community partners together to discuss key childcare challenges and identify priorities for action. The session emphasized the importance of collaborative solutions to improve access, affordability, and workforce support.Press Release (read more) – October 2025
Helpful Links:
Resources & Funding for Child Care Providers:
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U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for the Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program to help rural communities develop and improve essential public facilities.
This funding supports the construction, expansion, renovation, or equipment needs of facilities that provide critical services in rural areas with populations of 20,000 or fewer.
Multiple funding options are available, including direct low-interest loans, grants, and loan-grant combinations. Grant amounts vary based on community size and median income levels.
Key details:
Eligible applicants: Public bodies (cities, counties, special purpose districts), nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized Tribes
Eligible uses: Construction, acquisition, or improvement of essential community facilities; equipment and vehicle purchases; related project costs
Eligible areas: Rural communities with populations of 20,000 or fewer
Application deadline: Open year-round (funding is available on a rolling basis)
Learn more and apply through USDA Rural Development.
Contact: terry.butler@usda.gov
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The Washington State Department of Commerce is accepting applications for the 2027–2029 Public School Districts and Tribal Compact Schools Funding Round to support the planning, design, and construction of early learning facilities.
This funding is intended to expand access to early learning programs by increasing facility capacity across Washington, particularly in communities with demonstrated need.
Funding may be used for land acquisition, predesign, design, construction, renovation, and equipment related to early learning facilities.
Key details:
Eligible applicants: Public school districts and Tribal compact schools
Eligible uses: Land acquisition, planning, design, construction, renovation, and facility-related equipment for early learning spaces
Eligible areas: Projects must be located in Washington State and serve early learning needs
Funding priority: Projects that increase capacity for early learning and demonstrate community need
Application opens April 1, 2026.
Learn more and apply through the Washington State Department of Commerce.