COVID-19 Emergency Funding for Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care

The BC Aboriginal Child Care Society (BCACCS), through the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Framework, invites First Nations and Urban Indigenous ELCC Programs to apply for funding to support children birth to six years of age and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. Download the information sheet.
How much is available?
The total amount of Emergency COVID-19 Funding available is $20,000. Nations and organizations who have previously received Emergency COVID-19 Funding (up to $10,000 for period of June 1, 2020 – September 30, 2020) are invited to apply for additional Emergency COVID-19 Funding up to a combined maximum of $20,000. New applicants can receive up to $20,000 for the period of June 20, 2020 – December 31, 2021. 
Who can apply?
• All First Nations communities in BC
• Urban IELCC programs and services (Aboriginal Friendship Centres, Head Start Programs, Aboriginal Infant Development, Aboriginal Supported Child Development, Aboriginal Child Care, etc.)
What is eligible?
This funding stream is flexible and could support a number of measures to respond to priorities for children and families during the pandemic. Nations can apply to recover costs incurred beginning June 20, 2020 and for projected costs until December 31, 2021.
Suggestions include, but are not limited to:
• Continuing or re-opening child care;
• Pandemic pay for regular/existing staff;
• Providing activity kits to families;
• Providing food security to families;
• Implementing technology supports;
• Purchasing health and safety supplies;
• Temporary support staff; and
• Professional development for early years staff.