Baltimore County Launches $2.5M Grant Program To Aid COVID-Impacted Childcare Providers

BALTIMORE COUNTY - Baltimore County has unveiled a $2.5 million grant funding program to support licensed childcare providers who have faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The grants, made possible through American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds, are designed to stabilize these providers during the later stages of recovery and assist those affected by under-enrollment.

"High-quality healthcare keeps children safe, engaged, and healthy — and it is absolutely essential for our working parents in Baltimore County," County Executive Olszewski said. "These grants will help providers stay in business, rebuild from the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and continue to nurture our youngest of learners."

The pandemic inflicted significant financial losses on childcare providers due to reduced attendance and increased safety and healthcare costs. To be eligible for the grants, childcare providers must have 14 or fewer registered slots and have been licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education on or before March 11, 2021. Abilities Network, a Towson-based organization responsible for the distribution, grant payment, and childcare license verification, will administer the grant program.

"Early learning is essential for our children's future success, but COVID imposed huge hardships on childcare providers across our state. Through the American Rescue Plan, we provided local leaders with resources to meet critical community needs, and I'm glad to see the County Executive investing these funds to strengthen access to quality child care for Baltimore County's families and children," Senator Chris Van Hollen said.

Each grantee will receive $5,000 to aid their recovery efforts from the pandemic, with expenditures required to be utilized by December 31, 2024. Eligible expenses include personnel costs, rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, health and safety practices, equipment and supplies, mental health services, and goods and services essential for childcare operations. If demand exceeds the available funding, grants will be awarded based on the order of application submission.

Interested childcare providers can find the application and detailed grant information on Baltimore County's ARPA webpage. Applications will be accepted via email from May 22 at 9 am through June 2 at 5 pm. To gain further insight and guidance, organizations are encouraged to attend the Baltimore County ARPA Childcare Support Grant webinar scheduled for May 15. Registration details for the webinar can be found here.