The Office of Early Childhood Development, in partnership with the Department of Human Services (IDHS) and Department of Children and Family Services (IDCFS), has established a structure and system for child care providers to apply for an emergency child care license to provide care for essential workers. While pieces are still coming together, information on resources available to you at this time can be found HERE.
These centers will provide care in much smaller group sizes than standard centers, and the state has already received 150 applications. Additionally, the DHS is developing a grant program to support centers and homes who serve low-income essential workers. If you are a provider, an interested organization, or a parent or guardian, you can learn more about these options at www.coronavirus.illinois.gov in the coming days.