Is this really needed? Is this a good and proper use of our tax dollars?
Providers must apply by Oct. 14 for payments through December
Child care providers across Minnesota are in line for more state support to help them keep operating through the end of the year – but only if they apply for funding by Oct. 14.
About 7,300 providers may be eligible for COVID-19 Public Health Support Funds for Child Care from the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The non-competitive grants totaling $53 million will help family child care providers and child care centers cover the costs of safeguarding the health and safety of children and staff for three months.
Many providers were already struggling to stay open before the pandemic. Implementing public health guidance for COVID-19 compounded financial strains, with higher costs for smaller groupings in classrooms, extra cleaning and more sick leave.
“Child care providers across Minnesota have been doing heroic work to provide safe and nurturing care for children so their parents can continue working,” Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead said. “We want all providers to apply for these funds by the deadline so they can take advantage of this additional financial support.”
Starting Monday, providers will receive an email from the Department of Human Services with a link to an online application. They must submit their application by 5 p.m. on Oct. 14.
Home child care providers could get up to $1,200 a month from October through December, while licensed centers may be eligible for up to $8,500 a month. Certified centers that care for school-age students could get up to $3,000 a month.
To qualify, providers must meet these criteria:
- Operating and serving children on Sept. 15
- Committed to continue operating through Dec. 15
- License in good standing
- Not found responsible for fraud in the past
All eligible providers will receive funds as long as they apply by the deadline. This includes 600 certified child care centers that provide care for school-age children and participate in the Child Care Assistance Program for families with low incomes.
For technical assistance, contact Child Care Aware of Minnesota at 651-290-9704 or [email protected].
For child care resources related to COVID-19, including public health guidance, visit mn.gov/childcare.