Free Guidance
Child Care Resource & Referral
CCR&R specialists help families find and evaluate quality child care that fits their schedule, budget, and needs.
Free for all families
Volunteer, donate, careers, board
Community
Support children and families, volunteer, donate, view board information, or explore careers.
Donate to support children and familiesStay connected to early learning in Polk County.
Donate to support children and families
Report suspected fraud: info@elcpolk.org or 877-352-7655
Programs for Community
Advocacy & Impact
Community Partnerships
Volunteers, donors, and community advocates are the backbone of early learning access across all of Polk County.
9,000 children/monthSince 1999
Early Learning Impact
For over 25 years, ELC Polk has led Polk County's effort to ensure every child arrives at kindergarten ready to learn and succeed.
Est. 1999, Lakeland FLVolunteer
Give time to support children and families.
VolunteerEventsOutreach
Advocate
Help promote high-quality early learning.
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Fight fraud
Find public meetings, careers, and ways to connect.
BoardCareersContact
Upcoming
Events for Community
Aug
5
Polk County Family Resource Fair
Aug 5, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 1:00 PMRP Funding Center, Lakeland
Annual back-to-school resource fair with child care enrollment help, VPK sign-ups, School Readiness applications, and community services all in one place.
Learn moreAug
6
ELC Polk Board of Directors Meeting
Aug 6, 2026 · 5:30 PM115 S Missouri Ave, Lakeland, FL 33815
Monthly public board meeting. Community members welcome.
Learn moreNews & Updates
Latest for Community
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ELC Polk is open Monday through Thursday 8am–5pm and Friday 8am–12pm.
Child Care Resource and Referral helps families find quality, affordable child care options and local resources.
Children will be prepared for school and life success.
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