West Central Initiative

COVID-19 Impact

The state’s stay-at-home order greatly impacted child-care providers. A large percentage of the providers lost 50% to 70% of the children in their care, along with the income associated with those children. Other providers expanded their hours to accommodate specific employers, such as the local hospital, continuing their child care from early morning until late into the night. Many providers also expanded their care to school-age children, providing space and technology to continue with distance learning. This is all at a time when disinfectant products and toiletries are scarce and food costs are increasing.

Emergency Fund

West Central Initiative leverages partnerships to provide families and communities in west-central Minnesota with the resources they need to thrive. With support from Home Grown, they allocated $1,000 to every 100 family-based providers on a first-come, first-served basis. Most funds were used for cleaning supplies, infrared thermometers, food—and even mortgage payments.

Little Boy Eating His Lunch at School

Home Grown Endorses the Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act Introduced in the United States Senate by Senator Bob Casey (PA)

Home Grown is proud to endorse the Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act in both the U.S. House and now the U.S. Senate. We look forward to working with Members of Congress to help accomplish our shared goal of keeping our kids fed.
Thank you child care

We’re Grateful for Our Child Care Heroes!

This Thanksgiving, Home Grown is sharing gratitude for the home-based child care providers who keep America working.
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Home Grown Endorses the Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement Act

Home Grown is proud to endorse the Early Childhood Nutrition Improvement Act in the U.S. House. We look forward to working with Members of Congress to help accomplish our shared goal of keeping our kids fed. Read our full statement.