Dear early care and education supporters --

Gov. Wolf released details on how the $303 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds for child care will be spent. More detailed information will be coming next week from OCDEL. While this federal funding will help the child care sector, we continue the fight to ensure more robust support comes from the federal government so at least $50 billion is provided to the industry. We encourage you to take action and advocate for more federal relief using the link below. Lastly, don't forget tor register for upcoming professional development sessions being offered across the state.

Be safe and well,
The PennAEYC Team
Wolf Administration Announces Spending Plan for $303 Million in Federal Child Care Funds
Governor Tom Wolf announced allocation plans for more than $303 million in federal child care funds. The funds come from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 (CRRSAA), signed into law in December.

“Child care providers across our commonwealth have endured a year of challenges and changes – circumstances that have made doing business incredibly challenging,” said Gov. 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.” In summary, funds will be allocated as follows (amounts rounded):
  • $212 million for child care providers.
  • $3 million to provide a $600 Pandemic Relief Award to the 5,000 teachers and staff currently on a waiting list.
  • $87 million to continue to support the base rate increase previously announced.
  • $1 million to provide an administrative rate increase for Early Learning Resource Centers.  
Additional information including eligibility criteria and timeline will be shared via an Early Education News Special Announcement and available on the Pennsylvania Key website on March 10, 2021. The funding will be issued beginning April 20, 2021. We will provide more information once posted.
Join Advocates Across Pennsylvania to Save Child Care!
Congress is working right now on COVID relief legislation! Join providers, parents, advocates and allies from across Pennsylvania this week as we call on Congress to save child care and pass this COVID relief legislation with at least $50B in funding for the industry.
 
While federal funds have helped some providers keep their doors open, we are still far from preventing a collapse of the industry. Providers still need funds to support facility expenses, float payroll, implement COVID practices and bridge the income gap if their program have been slow to enroll (enrollment is reported to be down between 20 and 50%).

We know that the child care industry is critical for families and our economy. If there is no child care, there is no recovery. Take action here. You can also call the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121 to be connected to the offices of your members of Congress by phone.
Upcoming Professional Development Sessions
PennAEYC and our partners around the state have a variety of professional development opportunities available for you throughout the year. Currently we are offering virtual sessions on advocacy, from basics to specifics, and much more. In addition to newsletter announcements, check our website for a current list of options.
March
If you are in need of a professional development session and do not see on this list or PennAEYC's website, contact Rose Snyder to discuss options.
Phone: (717) 635-9026
415 Market Street, Suite 208
Harrisburg, PA 17101