Pennsylvania launches bonus program to support child care worker recruitment and retention

Governor Josh Shapiro visited Children of God Educational Services in Bucks County to discuss new investments for child care workers included in Pennsylvania’s 2025-26 budget. The event was attended by Secretary of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh, legislative representatives, and community leaders.

The state’s child care sector currently faces about 3,000 unfilled positions. Filling these jobs would allow providers to serve an additional 25,000 children. Many centers have struggled with low wages, making it difficult to attract and keep qualified staff. As a result, some have closed classrooms or turned families away.

To address these issues, the newly signed budget creates a $25 million Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program. This initiative will provide approximately $450 per year to each employee at licensed Child Care Works providers. Around 55,000 child care workers are expected to benefit from these bonuses.

Governor Shapiro said, "When parents can't find affordable, reliable care, they can't work - and our economy suffers. We've lowered costs by tripling the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit for nearly 219,000 working families, but affordability isn't enough - we also have to expand access. That's why we're making investments to help child care centers hire and retain talented educators. These bonuses will help strengthen the workforce, open more slots for children, and make sure families across Pennsylvania can find the care they need."

Other speakers at the event included Valerie Hamilton, owner of Children of God Educational Services; Madison Peneguy, after care teacher at Children of God Educational Services; Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh; and Representative Tina Davis.