University Park, Pa. -- Penn State will distribute $1.2 million in student-parent child-care subsidies during the next four years. The subsidies generate from a new grant the University received from the U.S. Department of Education.
Penn State was awarded the maximum amount possible under the federal Child Care Access Means Parents in School program. The University will receive $300,000 per year for four years. The new funding represents an $80,000 increase over an existing grant that expired Sept. 30.
Child-care subsidies will be distributed to student parents at all Penn State locations. As required by the Department of Education, priority will be given to student parents who receive federal Pell Grants. Students who do not receive Pell Grants can apply for future subsidy distributions.
"Student-parents contribute to the diversity of the Penn State community," said Linda E. Pierce, manager of the University's Work/Life Programs. "With additional federal funding, Penn State will be able to lower the high cost of child care for hundreds of student-parents across Pennsylvania."
Student parents can obtain detailed information and application forms by visiting http://www.ohr.psu.edu/worklife/subsidies.htm online. Additional questions can be answered by contacting Stephanie Zezzo at either (800) 746-6759 or sxc168@psu.edu.