**DES MOINES, IA** — Governor Kim Reynolds has unveiled new initiatives aimed at enhancing Iowa’s child care system. The plan includes the introduction of a Statewide Solutions Fund, an extension of the Child Care Assistance pilot for child care workers, and the issuance of Continuum of Care grants to facilitate full-day programs for 4-year-olds.
“Cooperation among individuals, businesses, and government yields positive outcomes for Iowans, particularly in the realm of child care,” stated Governor Reynolds. “These initiatives will expand our child care workforce, increase facility capacity, and provide full-day care opportunities for working parents.”
### **Continuum of Care Grants**
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is set to launch a Request for Proposal for Continuum of Care grants, which will offer up to $300,000 over a span of three years. These grants aim to foster collaboration between Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program (SWVPP) sites and licensed child care centers to deliver seamless, full-day care for children aged 4.
“This grant promotes high-quality preschool and child care collaborations, addressing the needs of children and working families,” remarked Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow. “With 90% of a child’s brain developing by five, this initiative will enhance access to early childhood programs that pave the way for future success.”
Additional financial support will also enhance the pipeline for the early child care workforce. “These investments benefit working families, equip children for school, and recognize our child care workforce,” commented Iowa HHS Director Kelly Garcia. More details can be found at [Iowa Early Childhood Program Information](https://educate.iowa.gov/pk-12/early-childhood/swvpp).
### **Statewide Solutions Fund**
The newly established fund invites contributions from residents and businesses to elevate wages for child care workers. Funds designated for regional initiatives will have restrictions, while unrestricted funds will receive a 2:1 match from the state. Building on a previous pilot program that resulted in the creation of nine regional funds, the Common Sense Institute of Iowa forecasts that a statewide fund could:
– Create 11,000 additional child care slots.
– Enable 5,000 women, including 1,000 child care workers, to enter the workforce.
– Generate 8,000 jobs across Iowa.
– Produce $45 in GDP and $21 in personal income for every $1 of private investment.
Further information is available at [Iowa Grants](https://www.iowagrants.gov/viewStorefrontOpportunity.do?OIDString=1742847843596%7COpportunity&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery).
### **Child Care Assistance Pilot Extended**
The state has prolonged a pilot program allowing eligible child care workers to access Child Care Assistance regardless of whether their income exceeds standard limits. This program has benefited over 900 families and 1,500 children, ensuring that child care workers can afford care for their own children. Details can be accessed here: [Child Care Funding Opportunities](https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/child-care/child-care-funding-opportunities).
