New emergency fund launched for Philadelphia childcare providers impacted by COVID-19

The Philadelphia Emergency Fund for Stabilization of Early Education (PEFSEE) aims to ensure that Philadelphia’s early learning sector does not lose capacity or expertise as a result of the COVID-19 crisis so that children and families will continue to have access to high quality early learning opportunities. The funds will help sustain early learning providers, including childcare, pre-k, and home visiting programs serving children from birth to age five. PEFSEE is funded through grants from the William Penn Foundation and Vanguard’s Strong Start for Kids Program™, and is administered by Reinvestment Fund.

The Fund will support organizations that provide early learning for children from birth to age five. Licensed childcare, family childcare, pre-k, and home visiting programs in Philadelphia are eligible, including Head Start and Early Head Start providers. Providers of these programs can request assistance to sustain basic expenses, support new methods of helping families during the closure period, and support future needs required to reopen. The Fund will be administered by Reinvestment Fund, which will review applications and grant awards on a weekly basis. The funding round will begin on April 6th. Sign-up to receive an alert when applications become available.

PEFSEE is also accepting donations from institutions and individuals looking to support Philadelphia’s early learning community at this time. Donations can be made at: justgiving.com/campaign/PEFSEE. For questions about the program or donating, please contact pefsee@reinvestment.com.