Only 30% of Pinellas childcare remains open to serve essential workers

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas (ELC) continues to emphasize the importance of childcare in our communities, especially for workforce deemed essential. With over 70% of childcare centers closed temporarily, the remaining centers continue to open their doors to the children of essential workers such as first responders, grocery clerks, postal workers, delivery drivers, and others.

The ELC is asking for help supplying those providers with the various cleaning, hygiene, and safety items to help them continue providing safe environments to children of essential workers. Donations directly support providers who are currently on the front lines every day. Childcare providers report a strong need for such items as:

• Hand Sanitizer
• Face Masks
• Disposable Gloves
• Toilet Paper
• Sanitizer Wipes
• Hand Soap
• Paper Towels
• Garbage Bags
• Anti-Bacterial Sprays
• Bleach

To donate items directly to the coalition: contact Kelley Miller, program supervisor, at KMiller@ELCPinellas.org to coordinate your donation drop-off or pick-up with ELC staff.

To partner with the ELC and join efforts to support providers: contact Rosa Rivera, director of community engagement, at RRivera@ELCPinellas.org.

To contribute to ELC funding: visit the secure portal at ELCPinellas.org/How-To-Help.

For general inquiries: contact Julie Mastry, Chief Program Officer, at JMastry@ELCPinellas.org, or call 727.545.7536.

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: http://elcpinellas.net/covid-19/.

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