Here’s a quick snapshot of the latest resources and information we have today, May 1, 2020.
All Program
Update from ODJFS
The Ohio Department of Job & Family Services (ODJFS) sent out the following update yesterday to Ohio child care providers:
We know that many of you have questions on when child care will reopen. Below is an update on what we know today.
Background
Last month, the Director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) issued a public health order to close child care programs, effective March 25, 2020. This order is to remain in full force and effect until the State of Emergency declared by the Governor no longer exists or the Director of ODH rescinds or modifies the Order.
The Governor then signed Executive Order 2020-04D which gave the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) authority to establish the Temporary Pandemic Child Care license. ODJFS emergency filed an Ohio Administrative Code rule outlining the temporary pandemic child care requirements, which remain in effect for 120 days or until rescinded.
The Executive Order established April 30, 2020 as the date to re-evaluate the Temporary Pandemic Child Care license, with the potential to extend or adjust as needed.
Update
As Gov. DeWine continues to establish the Responsible Restart Ohio plan, please know that child care is recognized as a critical component to support the workforce. For now, temporary pandemic child care programs will continue to operate and serve families with parents/caregivers on the essential list. This list can be found here. If you have questions, please contact the ODJFS Child Care Help Desk at 1-877-302-2347.
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
The past weeks have been physically and mentally challenging as we all have had to adapt our lives to social distancing guidelines and stay-at-home orders. As we move into a new month and continued guidelines remain in place to help limit the spread of COVID-19, take some time to care for yourself and nurture your own mental health.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful:
- Upcoming webinars addressing a wide range of mental health topics
- Mini-training (5-15 minutes) from the Montgomery County ADAMHS
- Pause & Listen: Utilize an Emotional Support Tool to help you manage your feelings.
- Practicing Healthy Habits during COVID-19
- Recognizing Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
- National Alliance on Mental Health resources
Webinars for Next Week
Click hereto see additional webinars happening next week that cover topics including learning more about recognizing and reporting child abuse, exploring math and more.
Pandemic Programs
Need Help Navigating?
You can find additional information on the ODJFS website, at the ODJFS help desk or by calling 1-877-302-2347.
If you cannot reach someone at ODJFS, contact us and we will do our best to get you the information you need:
- Email: coaching @4cforchildren.org
- Southwest Ohio: 513-758-1334
- Miami Valley: 937-723-1334
Removal from the Pandemic Child Care List
If you have been approved as a Pandemic Child Care Program and now wish not to provide pandemic care, email a request to ODJFS.
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