1.

Q:

What is the purpose of the Quality Counts Grants?

2.

Q:

How do you define quality child care?

3.

Q:

Who can apply for a Quality Counts Grant?

4.

Q:

Where do the funds come from?

5.

Q:

Can I apply again if I received a grant last year?

6.

Q:

How much money can I apply for?

7.

Q:

Could I receive less money than I apply for?

8.

Q:

How many grants will be awarded, will I receive full amount I request?

9.

Q:

How do I receive funds?

10.

Q:

Is this a grant or a loan?  Do I have to pay it back?

11.

Q:

Do I need to report the grant as income?

12.

Q:

What are some tips?

13.

Q:

What is the process for applying for funding?

14.

Q:

Can I submit more than one proposal?

15.

Q:

What can I request?

16.

Q:

What should I NOT apply for?

17.

Q:

Is there a limit on how many pages I can write for the narrative questions? What I should include?

18.

Q:

How much detail do I provide on the budget?

19.

Q:

When do I need to attach a IDCFS corrective action plan, Health Department documentation, Fire Marshall documentation, and/or IDCFS licensing standards?

20.

Q:

What do I need to submit if my program is accredited or in the process ?

21.

Q:

When are proposals due?

22.

Q:

Can proposals be mailed?

23.

Q:

Who reads the requests and how are they scored?

24.

Q:

Which grant proposals receive higher consideration?

25.

Q:

Which programs receive higher consideration?

26.

Q:

Do I have to attend the Quality Counts Bidders’ Conference ?

27.

Q:

When will I know if I have been awarded funding?

28.

Q:

What should I remember?

1.

Q:

What is the purpose of the Quality Counts Grants?

A:

The Quality Counts Grants, made available by the Illinois Department of Human Services, are intended to improve the quality and/or increase the capacity of child care programs.

2.

Q:

The purpose of this program is to improve the quality of care for all children, but how do you define quality child care? (Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A.

Quality child care promotes children’s social, cognitive, emotional and physical development.  The 4 indicators of quality care are as follows:

1)      Relationships.   Promoting positive relationships among all children and adults to encourage each child's sense of belonging and independence. Fostering children's development respective to each family's composition, language and culture help all children succeed. Respectful relationships are inclusive of all children and families' backgrounds, interests, and experiences, learning styles, needs and capabilities. The quality of these relationships influences the learning and development of children.

2)      Curriculum and Assessment.  A well-planned curriculum with identified learning outcomes, which includes and integrates cognitive, social, emotional and physical development, leads to improved and more complex thinking skills.

3)      Environment.   Children reach their learning potential in a healthy, safe, secure and accessible environment. The indoor/outdoor environment includes facilities, equipment, and materials to enhance children's learning experiences.

4)      Program Management.  Effective program management leads to high quality experiences for all children, families and staff. A well run program incorporates current technology, professional resources, best business practices, formal education and training, effective supervision, and sound policies and procedures.

3.

Q:

Who can apply for a the Quality Counts Grants?
(Relates to Application - Program Information & Grant Narrative Requirements)

A:

You must be currently providing child care and:

–          Your program MUST be listed in the Child Care Resource Service provider database in order to be eligible for grant funds, regardless of openings.  You will need to be listed before you submit your application.

–          All programs must provide care in one of the following counties:

                     Champaign, Vermilion, Piatt, Macon, Iroquois, or Douglas

4.

Q:

Where do the funds for the Quality Counts Grants come from?

A:

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Bureau of Child Care & Development, provides funding for this grant program. 

5.

Q:

Can I apply again if I received a grant last year ?
(Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A:

Yes, you may apply for a grant during this grant period.

6.

Q:

How much money can I apply for?

A:

Each application must request a minimum of $100.  Maximum amounts are listed below.  Do not request more than the maximum amount for your type of program.

Family Child Care Homes:          Maximum: $  1,500.00

Group Family Child Care Homes: Maximum: $  2,000.00

Child Care Centers:                                

Capacity 1 to 50:                       Maximum: $  4,000.00

Capacity 51 to 100:                    Maximum: $  8,000.00

Capacity 101 or More:               Maximum: $12,000.00

7.

Q:

  Could I receive less money than I apply for?

A:

Possibly.  Since this is a grant proposal review process, no funding is guaranteed.  You may receive all that you ask for, some of what you ask for, or no funding in this grant period. 

The amount of funds available is limited, and the amount of funds requested always exceed the available dollars.

Your proposal will be reviewed by a knowledgeable and impartial panel of readers.  They will score your proposal on a variety of items, which are addressed in other questions in this document.  Final scores will help the panel determine who should be awarded funds and how much. 

The application includes an opportunity for you to explain how you would address your full request if we were able to only fund a part of your request.

8.

Q:

How many grants will be awarded?  Will I receive the full amount I requested?

A:

Currently we receive $ 244,467 for the Quality Counts Child Care Grant Program, with $80,675 targeted for programs that request funds to serve infants and toddlers.  The number of grants funded depends on the number of proposals received and amounts awarded to successful proposals.  We reserve the right to award full or partial funding. 

9.

Q:

If awarded funding, how do I receive the funds?

A:

All awards are paid on a reimbursement basis.  This means you purchase and pay for what the award letter specifies, and then submit receipts with a reimbursement request form that will be provided to you. 

–          Any item purchased prior to the award letter date will not be considered for reimbursement.

–          Any costs exceeding the award amount are considered out-of-pocket expenses and will not be reimbursed.

10.

Q:

Is this a grant or a loan?  Do I have to pay it back?

A:

This is a grant program, not a loan, which means funds do not generally need to be paid back.  However, the grant funds come from the State of Illinois, and certain policies and procedures must be followed.  The following policies apply:  

–          You will need to pay back the agency if you go out of business within two (2) years of receiving the grant. The amount due will be prorated based on the number of months you remained in business following the award.  You will need to repay for items that are not easily retrievable (e.g., fence).  The amount due will be prorated based on the number of months you remained in business following the award.

–          You will not be reimbursed for items purchased before the date of the award letter, even if the items were requested in your proposal.

11.

Q:

Do I need to report the grant as income?

A:

Grant funds are reported as income.  If awarded grant funds, you will be required to complete a W-9 form.  When you purchase the items for your business with your grant money, you may be able to claim them as business deductions.  Please consult your accountant for further information. 

12.

Q:

I’ve never written a grant before, what are some tips?

A:

A)    Read the entire grant request/proposal through thoroughly.

B) If you do not understand the instructions call:  Brenda at 244-7727 or Dottie at 244-2367.    

C)     Follow the format and instructions completely.

D)     Answer all questions and complete all sections.

E)    Write clearly, concisely, and to the point.

F)     Have another person who does not understand your business read your proposal before submitting it.  If they understand it, chances are the reviewers will too.

13.

Q:

What is the process for applying for funding?

A:

A)    Complete and submit the enclosed proposal including, application, budget, narrative and any requested documentation. 

B)     Follow all directions carefully. 

C)     The original application and budget form must be used (cannot be recreated.)

D)    Only complete and signed applications will be accepted. 

E)     If a question is not applicable, please indicate N/A in space provided. 

F)      A checklist for you to follow prior to mailing is included on the last page of the application.

14.

Q:

Can I submit more than one proposal?  Can I submit one application if my business/ agency has more than one site?

A:

Each site/location is considered to be a program.  Each program (site) must submit an application requesting what is considered specifically needed by that site.  (One license = one site = one program = one application.)

You can submit only one grant proposal per site per application period; however, you can request several types of items in one grant application as long as you do not exceed the maximum dollar amount. 

15.

Q:

What can I request?  (Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A:

You may apply for the following type of equipment/supplies:

(Not limited to examples listed.)

–          Facility Improvement - Infant/Toddler:  toddler bathroom, one-sided mirror, etc.

–          Facility Improvement - All Ages:  fence, egress windows, fire door, etc.

–          Equipment/Material for Children:  cribs, child-sized table/chairs, blocks, books, etc.

–          Professional Resources:  business computer, professional development resources, etc.

–          Family Resources: lending library materials, parent videos, etc.

–          Special Needs : widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, handrails for restrooms, etc.

Note:  Certain items are acceptable for equipment purchases (examples:  cell phones, computer, copier, postage machine, etc.); however, grant funds CANNOT be used for service contracts on that equipment (examples:  cell phone minutes, internet access, monthly postage meter charge). Grant funds CANNOT be used to purchase items from online auctions or for other third-party purchases. 

16.

Q:

What should I NOT apply for?  (Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A:

All items must be directly related to the safety and quality of your child care services.  Items you cannot apply for include, but are not limited to:  cosmetic home improvements; home additions; non-age appropriate items; used equipment; video games and decks; infant walkers; pools; trampolines; televisions; and vehicles.

As stated in question 15:  Certain items are acceptable for equipment purchases (examples:  cell phones, computer, copier, postage machine, etc.); however, grant funds CANNOT be used for service contracts on that equipment (examples:  cell phone minutes, internet access, monthly postage meter charge). Grant funds CANNOT be used to purchase items from online auctions or for other third-party purchases. 

17.

Q:

Is there a limit on how many pages I can write for the narrative questions and what I should include?

A:

You are limited to five (5) double-spaced, typed or hand printed pages for the narrative section.  >Do not EXCEED five pages.  Use the narrative outline when writing your narrative.  The outline will help you remain focused when answering the questions.  Your attachments for your budget or documents are not counted as part of the five pages.  For a list of documents to include, refer to the checklist located on page 4 of the application.

The proposal should be neat and easy to read with no typographical errors.  Keep the proposal simple (do not use elaborate packaging, such as expensive folders or spirals).  Due to the large quantity of proposals that reviewers will receive, elaborate packaging will be dismantled and is therefore unnecessary.

Clearly communicate your message without excessive wordiness.  Remember, committee members will be reviewing many proposals.  Being brief and concise, and including relevant information, will be an advantage.

Do not state assumptions.  Back up statements with factual information and data where appropriate.  For example:  Do not propose to expand an infant program without some documentation of need, waiting lists and/or other information to back up your request.

Make sure your narrative addresses the priorities you selected and how each item you request fits into those priorities.

Submit the required number of copies of completed proposals, including the original.  If you intend to attach or include pictures, they need to be copied and attached to all copies of the proposal.  Also, write your name or your business’ name on each of the attached pages.

18.

Q:

How much detail do I provide on the budget?
  (Relates to Application - Budget Instructions - Sample Budget - Itemized Budget)

A:

For details in completing your budget, please see SAMPLE Budget.  If you feel the reviewer of the application may not be able to identify the item you listed on your budget, attach a picture or description of the item.  For contracted labor work, you must attach at least two itemized bid estimates for work and materials.

Document budget figures carefully, including costs and shipping charges.  You may round to the nearest dollar.  To estimate taxes and shipping charges:

–          If you use the Internet to research your items, the “shopping cart” will usually tell you what the estimated taxes and shipping charges will be.  Document the source of your estimate.

–          If you use a catalog, call the company and ask a customer service representative to provide you with an estimate based on your location.  Document the source of your estimate.

Make sure you appropriately indicate the category for the items listed.  If the picture description recommends the item be used for children 3-5 years of age, and you indicate the item is for infants or toddlers, that item will not be considered.

19.

Q:

When do I need to attach a IDCFS corrective action plan, Fire Marshall documentation, Health Department documentation, and/or IDCFS licensing standards?
  (Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A:

You need to attach any of these documents to support purchases of equipment that will help you correct deficiencies that were addressed in a Corrective Action Plan or that will enable you to become licensed. 

Just a reminder:  if you are applying for funds to enable you to maintain your current license or assist you in obtaining a license, you will need to submit a timeline and plan for the project.

20.

Q:

If my program is accredited or if I’m in the process, what do I need to submit?
  (Relates to Application - Program Information)

A:

Accredited programs or programs in the accreditation process can be given priority for funds if the accreditation is through one of five approved processes:  NAEYC; NAFCC; NECPA; NAA (NSACA); or NAC (NAECEP).

Documentation of your status in the accreditation process must be submitted.  Only the following documentation will be accepted.  If your program is currently accredited, a copy of the certificate of accreditation, issued by the accrediting body, is required.  If you have applied for an accreditation visit or paid the validation fee (also known as:  verification fee, endorsement application fee, or second half payment), a copy of the check is required.  If your program is in the preliminary stages of the accreditation process, a copy of your improvement plan is required.

21.

Q:

When are proposals due?

A:

Applications are due to Brenda at Child Care Resource Service by  Friday October 20, 2006 no later then 4:30pm.  Applications received after the deadline will NOT be considered.  Any incomplete application will NOT be considered for funding.  Applications must be received in office by day/time stated above.  Applications sent via mail must be postmarked by day stated above. 

22.

Q:

Can I mail the proposal or bring it to the office?

A:

If you return the application in person, we will provide you with written verification of the date and time you turned it in.  If you mail in the application, it is recommended that certified mail/return receipt request be used.  You must include the original and 3 copies (for a total of 4 copies) of your application and attachments.  NO FAXES or EMAILS will be accepted.

23.

Q:

Who reads my request and how are they scored?
(Relates to Application - Proposal Information and Grant Narrative Requirements)

A:

A knowledgeable and impartial panel of readers will be asked to review and score the requests.  All steps will be taken to ensure reviewers do not have a conflict of interest with your program. 

Your program request will be rated on several criteria including, but not limited to, the following:

–          How well your proposal meets the statewide and local priorities.

–          Projects that address the needs of children/families receiving child care financial assistance from IDHS.

–          Clarity of narrative and complete budget.

–          Meeting and exceeding licensing requirements.

–          Attendance at the Bidders’ Conference (for the current fiscal year).

24.

Q:

Which grant proposals receive higher consideration?
(Relates to Application - Proposal Information and Grant Narrative Requirements)

A:

Following are the priorities for Child Care Resource Service.  Addressing a statewide priority is NOT a requirement; however, grants addressing any of the statewide priorities (the first 6 on the list below) will receive higher consideration for funding.

–          Increasing the capacity for infants/toddlers.

–          Improving the quality of care for infants/toddlers.

–          Increasing the capacity for school-aged children (full-year or school-year only).

–          Improving the quality of care for school-aged children (full-year or school-year only).

–          Creating the ability to accommodate children and families with special needs*.

–          Maintaining the ability to accommodate children and families with special needs*.

*  A child with special needs is a child who has been diagnosed by a professional and receives special services from the public school, a community agency or regular care by a physician for a medical condition.

25.

Q:

Which programs receive higher consideration?
(Relates to Application - Proposal Information, Program Information, Child Care Assistance, and Grant Narrative Requirements)

A:

Grants addressing any of these statewide priorities will receive higher consideration for funding.

–          Programs that serve children and families receiving IDHS and/or IDCFS child care financial assistance.

–          Full-year/full-day programs (at least 8 hours per day & at least 49 weeks per year).

–          Accredited programs or undergoing a documented accreditation process.

–          Programs that attend a Bidders’ Conference for the current fiscal year.

–          Programs that did not receive a Quality Counts Grant last year.

26.

Q:

Do I have to attend the Quality Counts Bidders’ Conference in order to apply?
(Relates to Application - Proposal Information)

A:

You will receive bonus points when your application is being reviewed if you attended the current fiscal year's conference.  At the Bidders’ Conference, you will be provided with information on completing your proposal and given a chance to ask additional questions.

At least one person must attend from each site to receive points for each site application.  In other words, if you plan to submit three site applications (one application must be submitted per site), three separate individuals will need to attend a Bidders’ Conference. 

27.

Q:

When will I know if I have been awarded funding?

A:

All applicants will be notified on or before December 1, 2006 by letter as to whether or not their grant proposal was funded.