PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Struggling child care workers in Pennsylvania are eligible for a portion of $303 million of federal funds derived from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act that passed into law in late December.

“Child care providers across our commonwealth have endured a year of challenges and changes – circumstances that have made doing business incredibly challenging,” says Gov. Tom Wolf. “A healthy, vibrant child care industry is a necessity to help our economy recover and support parents returning to work. We must remember this as we move forward and continue support for child care providers as they care for young Pennsylvanians and allow parents to work so our communities and economy can thrive.”

The money will be distributed beginning April 20. The largest amount, $140.7 million, will be given to child care providers who are experiencing a 32% or larger decline in enrollment; $3 million will be dedicated to giving an additional 5,000 child care providers a $600 grant.

To be eligible for the grant, child care workers must meet all three criteria:

1. Be employed by a licensed child care provider as of Jan. 1, 2021.
2. Earn less than or equal to a gross salary of $70,000, annually.
3. Work a minimum of 20 hours per week at a licensed childcare provider.

“Our child care industry has displayed incredible resiliency over the last year, but we know that has not been easy,” says Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller. “Child care and early education is foundational to a child’s development, and as a working parent, I know how much it means to families. We are committed to helping our child care industry weather this difficult period, and I am incredibly grateful for their dedication to our children and families.”