Childcare providers in central Michigan receive $4.5 million – The Morning Sun

Mid-Michigan childcare providers will receive $4.5 million in state cash from $365 million currently being made statewide.

Nearly 6,000 childcare providers are receiving $365 million in grants to provide employee bonuses and keep daycare facilities open to families in Michigan.

In Clare County, $1.07 million will go to nine child care centers, two family home service providers, and nine group homes.

Isabella was split $2.5 million among 21 child care centers, 12 family homes and 25 group homes.

Gratiot will see $994,427 divided among six child care centers, 14 family homes and 25 group homes.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer said the fund would help open programs and provide $1,000 bonuses to full-time employees.

“Many families in Michigan rely on childcare to keep their children safe, happy, healthy, and in school while parents go to work or school. It’s simple. Our economy cannot thrive without a thriving childcare industry, Mr. Whitmer said.

“I worked across the aisle to secure the largest investment in childcare in the history of the state. This funding helps keep our childcare business alive, makes childcare more affordable for families, and provides bonuses to childcare professionals. All of our children deserve a great start. These grants are another investment in their future.”

Grants have been awarded to licensed centers, group homes, family homes, and tribal childcare providers. Funds must be used to support the site’s operational costs and COVID response.

“I am very grateful for this grant. It gives me the opportunity to provide free childcare to my families. I also plan to use the grant money to increase the salaries of my employees. I want an employee who will stay here and be appreciated more than a minimum wage employee,” said Tamie Stampfly, owner and operator of a family daycare in Berrien County.

“I’ve owned a home childcare business for 10 years. I love this job, but it’s hard work. I work 18 hours a day. The pandemic makes it even more difficult. This grant makes it a little easier to stay open-minded and focused on upbringing my children.”

“I am honored to serve the children of Flint at two centers. Unfortunately, one of my locations has been temporarily closed due to the pandemic and staffing shortages,” said Teyana Sprinkle, owner and operator of the Honey Bee Palace Child Care Center in Flint.

“This grant will help me reopen my program, recruit qualified staff, and continue to provide high-quality early learning for children and families in my community.”

Theresa Buggia, owner and director at Children’s Clubs in Tuscola County, said: “This grant is like a lifesaver to ultimately pay all employees more than minimum wage as well. such as providing more than the minimum level of training”. “I plan to reward when employees improve their education on behalf of the kids. This will include additional training to deepen understanding of how to serve children with special needs and trauma as it is part of our daily lives. ”

Nearly all applicants also claim and receive a $1,000 bonus grant to fill employee vacancies. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is partnering with Michigan Works! network in February to host a virtual job fair to fill these jobs. Interested applicants should visit Michigan.gov/workforce for more details on these events.