Kentucky will use $763 million in federal funds to assist child care centers in reopening as more people look to return to work. The move comes as the state has lifted COVID-19 restrictions in recent weeks.
The money comes from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act with $39 billion earmarked for the child care industry.
Erick Friedlander, the state’s health and family services secretary, said a portion of the money will help child care centers operating before the pandemic struck.
click to download audioFriedlander said another portion of the money will go toward helping other child care centers reopen.
click to download audioAround $470 million will go to child care providers throughout the state. Another $293 million will help increase wages for early educators and family child care homes, and increase the number of quality child care options for under-served populations.
