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Franklin County RISE Program

A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Franklin County RISE program.

What is the Franklin County RISE Program?

Franklin County RISE helps families, child care providers, and educators by offering scholarships, bonuses, and supports. Families can receive up to $9,000–10,000 per child (birth through kindergarten) to help pay for licensed child care. Incentives also go to providers and educators to help keep high-quality care available and affordable for local families.
Learn more here.

How do I apply for the Franklin County RISE Scholarship?

You can only apply through a licensed child care provider in Franklin County. Families cannot apply directly.

Application methods:

  • Your child care provider starts the application online using the Franklin County RISE system.

  • After your provider submits the first part of the application, you’ll receive an email link to complete your portion and upload required documents.

Important:
There is no option to apply by mail, fax, in person, or phone. All applications are handled electronically through the provider’s online portal and email system.

Instructions for families and providers are available here.

How long does it take to receive funds?

  • You will hear back about your application within 3–5 business days after both you and your provider submit your parts.

  • Scholarship payments to your provider begin the first full month after enrollment and approval.

  • Awards continue through November 30, 2025, though missed months (due to unenrollment or temporary closures) will not be paid.

See program FAQs here.

What do the application steps look like?

  1. Select a licensed child care program in Franklin County.

  2. Your provider starts the application online and enters your email address and child’s age.

  3. You receive an email link to complete your portion and upload required documents.

  4. Your provider signs the program agreement after your scholarship is approved.

  5. Your provider submits monthly enrollment and attendance forms to receive scholarship payments on your behalf.

  6. Funds are paid directly to the provider, reducing your out-of-pocket child care costs.

What documentation is required when I fill out my application?

Income

  • Two recent pay stubs

  • Employer letter showing wages

  • Unemployment benefits letter, if applicable

Child’s Age / Date of Birth

  • Birth certificate

  • Medical or school record showing birth date

Other (submitted by your provider)

  • Provider’s license number

  • Provider’s business tax ID (EIN) or Social Security number

  • Bank account and routing numbers for direct payment

Common FAQ’s

1. Who is eligible?
Families with income between 145%–300% of the Federal Poverty Level, not currently receiving PFCC or Child Care Choice Voucher assistance, using a licensed child care program in Franklin County.

2. How much is each scholarship?
Up to $9,000–10,000 per child, based on household income and child care tuition, covering up to one year of care.

3. How many scholarships can a program have?
Child care centers can have up to 10 scholarships; family child care homes can have up to 6.

4. When will I hear back after applying?
You’ll get an email with your approval decision within 3–5 business days after you and your provider complete the application.

5. What happens if my child stops attending or I switch providers?
Notify RISEHelp@actionforchildren.org of any changes. Payments stop during gaps or program changes and resume when re-enrolled.

Who do I contact about my application status?

Action for Children

Visit the Franklin County RISE parent page here.