Aviation Department launches child care scholarship for airport workers

PHOENIX — The Aviation Department launched the City of Phoenix Airport Worker Child Care Scholarship Program on Tuesday to promote an added benefit for workers, the city of Phoenix said in a press release.

Phoenix City Council made a $4 million donation allowing the program to be possible through the city’s American Rescue Plan Act.

The ARPA is designed to support people, neighborhoods and businesses struggling due to the economic impacts faced from COVID-19.

“As a working mother, I know that ensuring your child has a vibrant, caring environment during the workday is paramount,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in the release.

“This investment in our airport team members in need can be life-changing. By supporting workers, airport operations, business concessions, and families thrive.”

Employees, concession workers and contractors who fall under certain criteria will all be available for scholarships.

The scholarship program was developed in an attempt to address the challenges of finding child care areas in airports.

“Now, staff at Sky Harbor International Airport will have safe, nurturing care settings to take their children while they work. In turn, their children will have access to quality early learning environments that will prepare them for success in kindergarten and beyond,” Melinda Gulick, CEO of First Things First, said.

This program positions Phoenix Sky Harbor as one of the few airports around the country to offer such programs.

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