Everyone connected to the state’s early care and education system is focused on making sure young children, their families and providers feel safe and secure during this unprecedented global pandemic. To that end, we hope that during these trying times you’ll find the following resources helpful.

The best source for updated information on actions taken by the state is the COVID-19 page on the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development (GOECD)’s website. We encourage everyone to visit this page regularly. The site includes recent updates on emergency child care and teletherapy in Early Intervention, among other critical issues.

In addition, see below for additional resources we hope will provide needed guidance and support for families and those in the field. Please bear in mind that the situation is dynamic and new information is released daily.

Illinois Guidance for Virtual Home Visits During the COVID-19 Pandemic (from GOECD and IDHS): An overview intended to provide information on platforms and resources for programs engaging in virtual or remote home visits (3/31/20).
Overview of the Federal Legislation Assisting Children, Families, and Child Care Providers (from the First Five Years Fund): An overview of how three provisions of the CARES Act support existing early learning programs, small business and families. This resource also gives on overview of the federal appropriations relevant to early learning and care, small business funding and human services (4/2/20).
COVID-19 and Unemployment Benefits (from the Illinois Department of Employment Security): An overview of the changes to the state’s unemployment insurance program (updated regularly).
COVID-19 Resources for Individuals and Families in Illinois (from the Shriver Center): Information about aid to communities seeking support during the COVID-19 pandemic (4/2/20).
COVID Resources for Immigrant Families (from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights): Website dedicated to information for immigrant and undocumented families (updated regularly).
COVID-19 Policy Resources (from the Heartland Alliance): Information on the recent policy changes and supports that may be available to those in your community (updated regularly).
The Ounce's COVID-19 Resource Page: Timely information about our work to connect advocates, providers and parents across the nation, as well as information on how to help provide relief to the families reached by the Ounce’s early childhood programs (updated regularly). You can also find a compilation of helpful Illinois-specific resources here.

If you have questions and concerns, feel encouraged to reach out to us at [email protected]. And, please be safe.

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