South Bend is adding $150,000 to its partnership with Ready to Grow St. Joe, bringing the city’s total commitment to 250-thousand dollars.

The new funding will support South Bend Strong Start, an initiative aimed at making childcare more affordable, helping providers and involving employers in local childcare solutions.

Mayor James Mueller says the investment supports working families and early learning. Ready to Grow says its scholarships help income-eligible families afford childcare.

The group received applications on the first day of its latest scholarship round to help 89 children.