If you filed a tax return in 2018 or 2019 or if you receive Social Security, Railroad Retirement, or certain Veterans benefits, you likely received an Economic Impact Payment (“EIP” also known as a “stimulus check”) automatically in the form of a direct deposit, paper check, or debit card.  

Over the past week, I have been inspired by the eloquent words of so many of my colleagues across our field who are also committed to the health and promise of each and every child, individual, family and community.   

Child Care Aware® of America Calls Federal Stimulus Support for Child Care a “Down Payment” and Urges More Funding to Serve Essential Workers   

WASHINGTON, March 27, 2020 — Child Care Aware® of America released the following statement in response to the latest federal stimulus package:  

“Congress has begun to acknowledge the essential role that child care plays during this public health emergency. This down payment of $3.5 billion, if distributed quickly, will provide much-needed help to the child care system in the short term. In particular, we know that this support can make a difference for the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies across the country that are working overtime to support the families of emergency and essential workers, the child care providers who are dealing with decisions to close or stay open, and the rapidly adapting system. 

Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) is pleased to announce that it has become a member of the National Interoperability Collaborative (NIC), a unique “community of networks” that sees a nation where everyone — especially vulnerable and underserved populations —  enjoys a better life. NIC’s mission is to improve systems and increase collaboration among the sectors that enhance health, safety and well-being by advancing information-sharing, interoperability, and the use of technology.   

Congress and the White House have officially approved federal funding for the remainder of FY2020, reaching a bipartisan agreement that provides more than $1 billion in increased funding for federal early childhood programs, including:

As Thanksgiving nears, we've been reflecting on the things that we're grateful for this season. First and foremost, we're thankful for the child care professionals who are taking care of our nation's 12.5 million children under age 6 who are in child care. These providers work long hours, for often unlivable wages, to provide safe, high-quality care for our youngest family members. We are so thankful for the time and love they give to the children in their care.