Child Care Program Vacancy/Closing Updates dated 3/17/20

Message for Iowa Child Care Programs from the Department of Human Services

Dear Child Care Providers,

As the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to monitor and respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, we are aware that numerous child care settings, including before and after school programs, have made the decision to cease operations for several weeks. While DHS is not recommending the closure of child care programs, we continue to recommend that you review CDC guidelines as well as recommendations from the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).

If your program has closed or will be closing due to COVID-19, please advise your DHS compliance worker or licensing consultant of the following:

• Reason for closure: Pre-emptive closure to prevent community spread or exposure/confirmed test of COVID-19 in facility
• Number of children served
• Dates of closure
• If known, # of children actively seeking alternative child care

It is important that we understand the scope of closures as we work to understand the needs of families in our communities.

Thank you for your help, your collaboration, and your understanding during this time.

Thank you,
Julie Allison
Child Care Bureau Chief

Tags: DHS , Covid-19 , coronavirus

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