Bailey Encourages Seeking Grant Funds for Childcare Programs

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Published on September 22 2020 9:54 am
Last Updated on September 22 2020 9:54 am
Written by Greg Sapp

A local legislator is encouraging people to consider applying for grants to support childcare centers impacted by recent coronavirus shutdowns.

St. Rep. Darren Bailey of Xenia said an additional $114 million in grants will be available for childcare providers through the Business Interruption Grants (BIG) program. This is the second round of funding dedicated to supporting childcare centers and homes.

Bailey said, "Childcare providers have been hit hard by forced shutdowns and extreme limits placed on the numbers of children allowed."

Grantees eligible for funding include childcare centers and family childcare homes that are licensed by DCFS and are currently open and serving children in their communities.

The Illinois Department of Human Services indicates that in the first round of grants over $156 million in BIG funding has been provided to 4,686 childcare providers across the state. The Department reported that 47% of the grant funds were awarded to childcare programs in areas that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.

Applications will be available online in coming weeks at www.ilgateways.com/financial-opportunities/restoration-grants