There is a shortage of childcare options for working parents statewide. The Child Care Stabilization Grant was launched this week to help keep childcare providers open and able to take care of children while their parents are earning income.
The program will distribute $350 million in grants that equate to $1000 or $500 bonuses for childcare professionals as well as provide funding for improvements to programs and signing bonuses for new workers. The plan could also expand low-cost child care programs.
The grants are available to licensed childcare providers only. The money will be disbursed directly from the employers to their employees.
The plan gets its funding from federal resources. It is expected to support over 8,000 childcare businesses throughout Michigan. According to the plan outline, every eligible provider who applies will receive a grant.
The average cost for childcare is over $9,000 per year for full-time care for one child in Michigan, according to move.org.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
