The Province has launched a new program that matches essential service workers with the childcare they need, in order to continue working.
So far, more than 2,650 essential service workers have been matched to open spaces with licensed childcare providers across the province. The process, which matches those working on the front lines of BC’s Covid-19 response plan with available childcare for children up to five years of age, is supported by a $38 million investment made by the BC government to ensure essential service providers still have access to childcare.
Spaces are prioritized for children whose parents are first responders, work in law enforcement, public health and health services, social services, and emergency response sectors. Any additional spaces are provided to children of those working in other essential roles such as grocery stores.
For children over the age of five, the Ministry of Education is working closely with independent schools and school districts to ensure students still have access to in-school supports during regular school hours as well as care before and after school.
As of April 16, up to 58,650 spaces at 2,530 childcare centres across BC are receiving funding through the Temporary Emergency Funding Program in order to remain open, or to reopen in the event that they had closed due to Covid-19.
Families who are accessing care from these providers may also be eligible for the Affordable Child Care Benefit, which more than 51,500 families in the province have already received.
“As British Columbians navigate these uncertain times together, parents who can are asked to continue to care for their children at home,” reads a press release from the Province of BC.
“All children and staff who are ill with a fever, or have cold, influenza or infectious respiratory symptoms of any kind, must stay home.”
