(The Center Square) – Gov. Eric Holcomb partnered with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce to grant an additional $6.9 million through the Employer-Sponsored Child Care Fund to 22 new companies and organizations.
The new grants will be awarded through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. The total $25 million invested in child care across the state is funded by remaining state COVID-19 relief funds, as well as the Indiana Manufacturers Association.
“Thousands of families will benefit from affordable, convenient access to child care, and nearly 100 businesses, community groups and schools will benefit from a workforce that doesn’t have to worry about where they’re going to find it,” OECOSL director Courtney Penn said. “But most importantly, children will benefit from quality early education that will set them up for success in K-12 and beyond.”
The grants can be used toward on-site child care at 40 companies, as well as child care tuition benefit packages at 15 companies. Other usages of funding include reserving seats at partner facilities, providing backup care options and establishing child care waitlists.
Employers receiving grants come from both urban and rural counties, including the Unity Foundation of La Porte County, Cook Incorporated in Bloomington and the Community Foundation of Pulaski County, Inc. in Winamac.
In total, more than 40 organizations with 1,000 or more employees will receive up to $750,000 each. More than 30 organizations with 100-999 employees will receive up to $350,000 each. Twelve small organizations with 20-99 employees will receive up to $50,000 each.
“By having more child care options, Hoosiers are provided the flexibility to enter and stay in the workforce and attain a better quality of life for their families,” Holcomb said. “The state is pleased to partner with businesses to provide more opportunities for their workforce, leading to a sustainable future for Indiana families.”