Advocates Applaud Wolf Administration’s Release of One-Time Federal Funds to Boost Pay in Child Care Sector

HARRISBURG (May 17, 2022) – The principal partners of Start Strong PA, applaud the Wolf Administration’s release of $98 million in one-time federal child care funding to provide support to providers seeking to recognize staff dedication through retention bonuses and assist with personnel development and recruitment. The Administration expects to release these funds in one lump sum to approved providers beginning July 1 until September 30.

Start Strong PA is calling on the General Assembly and the Wolf Administration to “Raise Child Care” by allocating sustainable state and/or federal funds as part of the final state budget to provide a permanent $2 per hour wage supplement for child care teachers and staff. This would help providers retain their current workforce as wages continue to rise throughout the economy. A March 2022 survey conducted by Start Strong PA showed that the historic child care staffing crisis- caused by low wages- continues to contract the capacity of Pennsylvania’s child care system.