FCF and Iowa Jefferson Keokuk ECI Help Registered Home Providers
As a result of the American Rescue Plan, Iowa received $200 million to provide Child Care Stabilization Grants to current licensed child care centers and registered child development home providers. These grants are to support qualified child care providers with operational costs, such as personnel, rent/mortgage, and equipment. As of January 10, 2022, Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) made the grant application available on their website and will be available until August 31.
Tammy Wetjen-Kesterson, Iowa Jefferson Keokuk Early Childhood Iowa (IJK ECI) Director, and the IJK ECI Board of Directors set out to help local registered home providers apply. They turned to First Children’s Finance (FCF) to help providers apply for the grants. The IJK ECI Board of Directors also realized many registered home providers might not be eligible. So, to show their appreciation for the commitment registered providers demonstrated during the pandemic, the Board created a local stabilization grant opportunity for those who would not qualify under the Iowa DHS eligibility requirements.
Two training workshops are being provided for registered home providers to support the process. On February 9th, Getting Ready for More Money, attendees shared what they had on their “wish list” if they received money. Many shared a desire to increase child care space in their homes. To prepare for making their wishes come alive, the providers learned how to complete a S.W.O.T analysis of their business, research options, and put their plan in writing. The April 13th, Making the Most of More Money webinar, FCF will discuss investing extra income in ways that will strengthen their child care business.
Since February 1, FCF has provided technical assistance to 25% of the registered home providers in Iowa Jefferson Keokuk counties. One provider FCF assisted had this to say: “The FCF staff was absolutely amazing helping me with my stabilization grant. After I received my check, I asked about using it for a home update and I was given the helpful information I needed to proceed.” – Rebecca, Registered Home Provider.
