Applications received to date: 14
Total Amount Requested: $ 98,891.00
Website: http://www.childrenfirst.org
Year Non-Profit Establish: 1961 and Non-Profit/Designation: 501(c)(3)
Mission Statement
Strengthening children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being.
How did you hear about our organization?
We learned about your organization through an article featured in Scene Magazine’s People & Business highlighting your Fall 2025 grant cycle and funded organizations. After reading the article, we visited your website to learn more about your mission and priorities.
What do you believe we can provide your organization?
The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation can provide a meaningful partnership grounded in our shared commitment to supporting women and children. A $5,000 investment in Children First’s scholarship program would help mothers pursue higher education and career training, opening doors to greater opportunity, financial stability, and self-sufficiency. By investing in a child’s future, The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation can also strengthen their family’s future by creating lasting, multigenerational impact for women and children throughout our community.
What will the grant be used for?
The $5,000 grant would provide scholarship support for children from low-income families to participate in Children First’s comprehensive early childhood education program. Funding would help cover the cost of high-quality education and care while connecting children with services that support their health, development, and school readiness. Every dollar helps ensure each child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Provide the grant amount you are seeking: $5,000.00
Do you provide services to Sarasota and/or Manatee County?
Yes
What is the financial impact per individual/program this grant will provide?
The average annual cost to provide comprehensive early childhood education and family support services for one child is approximately $14,100. The requested $5,000 grant would cover about 35% of the annual cost of serving one child, helping provide essential education, meals, developmental and health screenings, and individualized family support. Children First will secure the remaining $9,100 through other public and private funding sources.
Please provide the estimated number of women, children and families impacted.
We serve an estimated 1,100 women, children, and families annually, providing the services listed above, as well as mental health support, family advocacy, parent education, and opportunities for continued education and career advancement. Together, these comprehensive services help children prepare for success in school while empowering parents to achieve greater stability and self-sufficiency.
Is there a matching grant? No
If yes, indicate donation source:
May we tour your facility? Yes
Do you wish to speak to our Grant Chair about your application?
Yes
What reciprocal benefit can you provide our organization.
The Foundation’s generosity will be celebrated through a dedicated press release, featured recognition in our monthly email newsletter, and acknowledgment across Children First’s social media channels. The gift will also receive lasting recognition in our Impact Report, highlighting the Foundation’s meaningful investment in the success of women, children, and families.
Proof of Non-Profit Status
https://tlcwcf.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/15/501c3-Letter-4-1.pdf
Organization’s Logo
https://tlcwcf.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/15/CF-Logo-Square-1-150×150.jpg
Project/Program-specific budget:
https://tlcwcf.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/15/2026-Comprehensive-Services-Budget-Final-2-1.xlsx
Guide Star Profile/Rating (if applicable): Â https://tlcwcf.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/15/Candid-Guidestar-Profile.pdf
Anything else you would like to share with us?
Children First is highly decorated at the local, state, and national levels for our excellence in community service, organizational transparency, and outstanding workplace culture. Standout recent accolades include our fifth National Head Start Association Program of Excellence designation, Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, and widespread recognition as a 2025 and 2026 Top Workplace in the USA.