The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) announced the creation of regional Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs) to improve the quality of and access to early learning services in the state.Important information regarding Pennsylvania’s new Early Learning Resource Centers

Beginning July 1, 2018, ELRCs will provide a single point-of-contact for families, early learning service providers, and communities to gain information and access services that support high-quality child care and early learning programs. ELRCs will administer over $680 million in child care subsidy and supports. This state and federal investment in Pennsylvania’s working families enables parents to maintain employment while creating opportunities for the commonwealth’s children to develop and learn to their fullest potential.

Through the ELRC, child care professionals can obtain support in building quality outcomes for children by working with quality coaches to achieve Keystone STAR 3 and 4 status, building connections with community partners, and supporting children and families in accessing additional services, such as PA Pre-K Counts, Head Start, home-visiting, and Early Intervention.

All ELRCs will have a primary location in their designated region and will partner with community organizations to meet families’ needs where they naturally congregate.

ELRC Region 19 (Chester County):

Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) is the lead agency for Early Learning Resource Center 19, delivering Keystone STARS supports to early care and education providers, including quality coaching and support in processing grants.

PHMC has partnered with the Chester County Intermediate Unit to administer Child Care Works   (PA’s subsidized child care program) and to offer enhanced child care resource and referral services for all PA families. These services were formerly offered through Child Care Information Services (CCIS) of Chester County.

The PHMC Professional Development Organization will coordinate all Technical Assistance and Professional Development activities for early care and education providers (STARS TA, ECMH, Infant/Toddler TA, CCHC, needs-based PD, etc.).