BELLINGHAM, Wash. – The Bellingham City Council is making an even bigger investment into the city’s childcare businesses.
Last Monday, March 14th, councilmembers voted unanimously to earmark $1 million from the American Rescue Plan to continue supporting Bellingham’s childcare centers.
Councilmember Michael Lilliquist said that the measure would fund three areas of need.
“One to retain and expand additional childcare centers. Two to create programs to assist with workforce retention and expansion,” said Lilliquist. “And three to invest in additional business stabilization strategies for childcare users.”
He added that another boost in funding is necessary to keep childcare services running.
“It’s been over a year and a half since the City of Bellingham initially used Cares Act dollars to support childcare operators and staff,” said Lilliquist. “And the recommendation and conclusion is that more help was needed at the is time.”
About $3 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan has already been set aside for childcare services.