Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is seeking applications for a new grant program called Communities Addressing the Child Care Shortage.

These grants are designed to assist communities in developing action plans to address local child care needs.

Selected communities may become eligible for grants up to $10,000 as they begin to implement solutions to the child care shortage.

Applications are due at 4 p.m., Jan. 22. Visit smifoundation.org/childcaregrant for full guidelines and application. Proposals must be submitted by an independent 501(c)(3) organization, a unit of government or a public agency.

For questions contact Teri Steckelberg, Early Childhood Director, at teris@smifoundation.orgor 507- 214-7015 or Jennifer Heien, Grants Coordinator, at jenniferh@smifoundation.org or 507-214-7040.

This program is partially funded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services.