End of pandemic funding shutters some child care centers

An unprecedented number of child care centers are expected to close across the state as pandemic relief funding ends, the Texas Standard reported.

A survey conducted by the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children of about 1,600 child care programs indicated 44% were likely to close their doors without additional funding. Federal pandemic relief funds ended for most centers in June.

The Texas Legislature declined to pass a $2.3 billion House proposal for child care providers, with the intent the money be used to raise the average wage of staff from $12 per hour to at least $15 per hour.