Aakash Patel, The board chair of The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, joined AM Tampa Bay to discuss a program that provides free child care for first responders.
The Office of Early Learning had established a Child Care Application and Authorization Form (referral) for first responders and essential health care personnel to provide them child care services at a free or reduced rate.
Florida is getting $211 million as part of the federal pandemic stimulus package and that money will help fund child care service for first responders and health care workers.
The program is being administered through the State Office of Early Learning and its 31 Early Learning Coalitions.
Eligible first responders include sworn personnel like deputies, troopers and officers, fire fighters and 911 operators.
Kids can be up to the age of 13 and the family must reside in Florida and at least one parent must be employed as first responder or health care worker.
No income requirements and services will be authorized for three months.
To learn more about the program click here
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