Early Learning Coalition making deliveries to 100 childcare providers
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas (ELC) continues to emphasize the importance of childcare in our communities, as about 30% of Pinellas childcare centers have remained open to serve the children of essential workers.
After launching a supply drive for childcare providers just last week, the ELC received help and supplies from businesses and organizations across Pinellas.
Target and Costco contributed gift cards. Anona United Methodist Church contributed financially. The Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County came through with chlorine, funnels, gloves and gallon jugs to make cleaning solution. And Rob Bowen Design Group supplied spray bottles.
Big Storm Brewery and 3 Daughters Brewing donated hand sanitizer. Cloth face masks were donated by friends and family. And Burger King fed ELC staff while they created 100 “care packs” for 100 childcare providers in Pinellas.
Also, the collective was able to help eight additional providers that expressed specific needs. ELC staff are making contactless deliveries through Friday.
These contributions and this work help ensure continued childcare to children of essential workers. Donations directly support providers who are currently on the front lines every day.
To partner with the ELC on efforts to support providers: contact Rosa Rivera, director of community engagement, at RRivera@ELCPinellas.org.
To contribute to the Emergency Childcare Support Fund: visit https://bit.ly/PinellasKids or text HELPKIDS to 71441.
“Childcare providers have stepped up to care for children of first responders and healthcare workers during this pandemic,” said ELC CEO Lindsay Carson. “These providers are providing a critical service and deserve our support. We appreciate all the support that made this possible.”
About: The Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County is a nonprofit agency focused on high-quality early care and education – working with families and childcare providers to prepare children to enter kindergarten ready to succeed in school and in life. Information at ELCPinellas.org.
Updates: Visit the ELC’s Covid-19 Updates webpage for current information and resources: https://elcpinellas.net/covid-19/.
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