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December 04, 2025 - Harrisburg, PA

Shapiro Administration Highlights New 2025-26 Budget Investments to Expand and Support Pennsylvania's Child Care Workforce

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visited Little Learners CDC Academy to highlight new investments for the early learning and child care workforce secured by Governor Josh Shapiro in the 2025-26 budget. These investments will help Pennsylvania recruit and retain child care workers, expand access to quality care, and ensure more parents can stay in the workforce and provide for their families.

To address workforce shortages and expand child care availability, Governor Josh Shapiro's 2025-26 budget establishes a new $25 million Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide $450 per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers beginning in early 2026.

"Early learning and child care programs are an invaluable resource that foster educational and social development for our youngest Pennsylvanians and are a catalyst for a healthy, vibrant economy," said Secretary Dr. Arkoosh. "High quality child care helps our children grow and thrive while allowing parents to work and participate in our economy. Our dedicated, passionate child care workers are the ones who make that possible, and the Shapiro Administration is proud to make these investments that will support this essential field and strengthen our child care industry and our overall economy."

Speakers Include:
Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh



Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_001.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_002.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_003.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_004.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_005.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_006.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_007.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_008.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_009.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_010.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_011.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_012.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_013.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_014.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_015.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_016.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_017.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_018.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_019.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_020.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_021.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_022.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_023.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_024.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_025.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_026.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_027.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_028.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_029.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_030.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_031.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_032.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_033.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_034.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_035.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_036.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_037.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_038.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_039.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_040.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_041.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_042.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a> Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh visits Little Learners' Child Development Center Academy with Academy Director Denise Metzger to celebrate a $25 million investment in Governor Josh Shapiros 2025-26 budget to expand and strengthen the child care workforce with yearly bonuses, while supporting access to high quality child care for families around the Commonwealth. . .Investing in the child care workforce ensures that families can continue working while children receive the foundation they need to succeed. The Governors budget secures major investments in the child care workforce through competitive wage increases, recruitment, and retention bonuses for child care workers, including: .$25 million for the Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program, which will provide a $450 bonus per employee at licensed Child Care Works (CCW) providers. These bonuses will support approximately 55,000 child care workers and help stabilize the child care sector; and $7.5 million for Pre-K Counts to help providers raise wages and stabilize the early educator workforce.<br><a href="https://filesource.amperwave.net/commonwealthofpa/photo/28695_DHS_ChildCare_EmilyDamiano_043.jpg" target="_blank">⇣ Download Photo</a>