Georgia Foundation for Early Care and Learning

The Georgia Foundation for Early Care and Learning (GFEC+L) was established in 2017 to expand access to high-quality early childhood education for Georgia’s youngest learners. Its mission is to support children, families, providers, and teachers through strategic investments, collaborations, and partnerships that strengthen early learning experiences and prepare Georgia’s future workforce. The Foundation is a 501c3 grantmaking charity that works closely with the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) and leverages resources from public and private donors to improve educational outcomes statewide. Its vision is to ensure that every child in Georgia has the best possible start, regardless of income or location. 

Currently, the Foundation is leading several impactful initiatives. One major effort is the Early Literacy Alignment Mini Grant (ELA Mini Grant) program, which funds partnerships between childcare providers and public elementary schools to align literacy practices and ease transitions from pre-kindergarten to kindergarten. Each grant provides up to $5,000 for professional learning and collaborative projects that strengthen early literacy skills. Additionally, GFEC+L has recently supported Quality Rated Endorsements in language and literacy, and nutrition and physical activity, offering professional development and grants to participating providers. These programs aim to improve instructional quality and promote healthy, developmentally appropriate environments for young children. 

The Foundation also responds to urgent needs and celebrates excellence in early education. In 2025, GFEC+L distributed Hurricane Helene Relief Grants to 33 childcare programs affected by storm damage, helping restore safe learning environments through repairs and replacements of essential materials. Beyond emergency relief, the Foundation annually recognizes outstanding educators through awards such as Early Childhood Educators of the Year and Georgia Pre-K Teachers of the Year, inspiring quality and innovation across the state. These efforts, combined with strategic grantmaking and partnerships, underscore GFEC+L’s commitment to improving early learning outcomes and supporting Georgia’s children and families.

CONTACT US

For more information or to donate, visit us at gaearlyed.org or call or email Laura Wagner, Executive Director: 404.823.4062 or laura.wagner@decal.ga.gov