Illinois Announces New and Extended Relief Grants to Child Care Providers

Published: December 2, 2021

Facilitator at a daycare cleaning the chair between use while children play in the background to protect from the transfer of germs during COVID-19

Gov. Pritzker and Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Secretary Grace B. Hou have announced $300 million in new relief grants for child care providers across the state. The state also is extending a previous grant program by distributing nearly $50 million to previous recipients.

Applications for this newest round of funding will be due in early January, with funding beginning in February 2022 through January 2023. According to the press release, “this will support child care providers with approximately $25,000 per classroom per year, child care group homes with $15,000 per year, and child care homes with approximately $10,000 per year.” In addition, funding will be available for programs that can show they reach underserved communities.

Notably, in the interest of recruiting and retaining staff, at least 50 percent of these funds must be invested in new personnel and workforce initiatives, with a focus on increasing compensation and benefits.

In addition, Pritzker and Hou announced a $45 million, six-month extension to Child Care Restoration Grants to assist providers not eligible for the new round of grants.

Application information can be found via the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (INCCRRA)/Gateways to Opportunity Strengthen and Grow Child Care Grant page.