Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) Care Network

Transylvania County’s Local FFN Care Network

Family, Friend, & Neighbor (FFN) child care is the most utilized form of child care in the U.S.

In recognition of the large number of families in our community who rely upon FFN care, Smart Start of Transylvania County formed our FFN Care Network to recognize, uplift, and empower home care providers.

Our network consists of 73 active providers, who collectively care for 180 children under the age of 5.

Join Our FFN Care Network

Our FFN care network is available to license-exempt child care providers who regularly care for children under 6.

FFN Care Network Members meet monthly to network with other providers in the community, participate in chats surrounding child care, and work together to advocate for better resources and support for home-based caregivers.

Participants who complete monthly community roadmap activities are eligible to receive a gift card, developmental toys and tool kits, and valuable educational resources. Proof of completing four SSTC detailed activities must be provided in order to receive the incentives.

For more information and to see if you qualify please fill out the form below:

  • “Being a part of the FFN community group has been nothing short of transformative for us. The support we've received has been pivotal in integrating us into the community, offering friendships and resources that we wouldn't have found otherwise. The educational opportunities provided have been a huge benefit, and the support system has been integral...during the challenging times of raising young children.”

    -FFN Care Network Member

  • “I got involved with the FFN Program through Smart Start and was pleased to learn that there were resources for folks like me who are providing care for their grandchildren. It has been reassuring to meet with others - parents, grandparents, nannies - who can lend support, encouragement, experience, and education to each other so that we all feel more prepared and successful for the important role that we play in the lives of these little ones.”

    -FFN Care Network Member

  • “It's nice to be involved in a group of likeminded people caring for young children and to know we aren’t alone and can bounce ideas off of with the other providers. It’s great to see this network growing, and I look forward to seeing FFN care potentially being more widely known and valued in our state. I’m sure there are so many families that participate in this already and just don’t know, so it’s important to get the word out about FFN care!”

    -FFN Care Network Member

  • “The resources that we get from each other is really nice! I feel valued for what we do, and this has usually been a thankless job of caring for kids, so I am grateful for being a part of the FFN network.”

    -FFN Care Network Member