Lehigh Times

Earlier this week, Department of Human Services (DHS) Acting Secretary Meg Snead visited the Children's Playhouse, where she celebrated the Month of the Young Child as well as discussed the Wolf Administration's proposal for direct funding for state residents for child care needs.

The Month of the Young Child recognizes early childhood education programs and what children need to have strong, healthy starts, a recent new release on pa.gov said. Child care centers like Children's Playhouse have worked tirelessly through the pandemic to help families of all backgrounds for quality, equitable childcare. Keeping the centers well-staffed and open is a focus to help the economy and also the development of young children.

"A thriving child care infrastructure is foundational to the rest of our economy, and this industry and the dedicated educators who show up every day to help our children grow are essential to a thriving workforce and our children's futures," Snead said in the release. "Month of the Young Child celebrates the important role early childhood education programs place in growth and development of kids. Child care workers make this possible, and we must recognize the value of this work and continue to fortify this industry."

The Wolf Administration has taken steps throughout the pandemic to support child care centers across the state. Last fall, DHS announced a plan to distribute $655 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to assist with child care across the state. This involves licensed care providers applying for a one-time grant, and the funding can be used for expenses and support staff.

There has also been $352 million in Child Care Development Fund money through the American Rescue Plan Act that is being invested in Pennsylvania's Child Care Works child care program. This subsidized program targets decreased costs to families and greater support for child care providers involved in the program. It also sets incentives for providers to expand care beyond traditional hours.

"These grants can help people access child care that enriches their children's lives and allows them to go to work," Snead said. "They can invest in their education and professional development. We cannot move forward if we are leaving people behind, and by investing our individual dignity and the value we all can bring, we can give our families a step forward—something that benefits entire communities."

Go to findchildcare.pa.gov for licensed child care programs in Pennsylvania.