Many individuals will have Monday, January 15th off as we recognize the late Martin Luther King, Jr. However many more will answer the call to action and participate in a Day of Service as the Jackson County Education Coalition and the Jackson County United Way come together in a collaborative effort to increase awareness of two FREE programs offered to Jackson County residents. Volunteers will canvas targeted areas in Brownstown, Crothersville, Freetown, Medora, and Seymour to once again hang door hangers with information on the FREE On My Way Pre K and the FREE Income Tax Assistance program.
“On My Way Pre-K awards grants to 4-year-olds from low-income families so that they may have access to a high-quality pre-K program the year before they begin kindergarten. Families who receive a grant may use the grant at any approved On My Way Pre-K program in Jackson County.” Said Erica Woodward, Project Manager at SIEOC CCR&R. “Families chosen for On My Way Pre-K grants will receive not only a half year of a high quality prekindergarten program, but will also have access to high quality early education environments for a full 53 weeks from the start of their grant.”
After the prekindergarten program ends in June, families will still be able to access not only high quality summer care but also high quality before and after school care once they begin kindergarten to support their parents who work or attend school. Woodward added “We have 13 providers to choose from in Jackson County, ranging from half day programs to full day programs.”
On My Way Pre-K will begin accepting applications in the Spring. For more information you may call or text Erica Woodward at 502-495-8452 or by calling the Jackson County Community Foundation at 812-523-4483.
Households making $66,000 or less may qualify for the FREE Income Tax Assistance program. “Our volunteers are IRS trained to find the biggest refund allowed. They know how and where to look for credits and deductions.” Said Bonita Dobbs, United Way Program Manager. “Many people may qualify for the Earned Income Credit or the Child Tax Credit but don’t know how to fill out the proper forms. Our IRS certified preparers do!” Dobbs added “This basic tax service can also save an individual hundreds of dollars in rapid refund fees. We all work hard for our money and we shouldn’t have to pay a fee to get it back.”
Registration for On My Way Pre K is not yet open and individuals may register to have their taxes filed beginning January 22nd by calling United Way 2-1-1, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; an alternative number is 812.376.6666. If you’d like more information on the On My Way Pre K program, please contact the Jackson County Education Coalition at 812.519.2923, ext 304. For more information on the Free Income Tax Assistance program contact Bonita at 812.522.5450 or bonita@jacsy.org.