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Last meeting, we heard from Ashley Hicks, Director of Development and Events for Hand in Hand, whose goal is to empower children and adults of all abilities to learn and grow by providing inclusive programming and supporting families. Started in 2000 by two local families, the goal was to give their children every opportunity typical developing children have. While they have experienced growth and a significant rise in demand, this is not out of the ordinary for them. For 24 years, they have consistently operated in this manner. Their current level of sophistication allows them to utilize data to pinpoint issues and develop effective strategies. Some of their regular programming includes: Inclusive Childcare, After School Care, Recreation, High School ASC Club, Summer Enrichment, Adventure Summer Club, PWP Adult Dayhab, and Camp.
Some of what they are they are seeing
- 30% Increase in Need of 1:1 Support
- 23% Decrease in Those with Waiver Funding Support
- $558,000 Funding Opportunity
- CCAP
- 30% Less than Private Pay
- CCAP Provision doubled
- Cost: $81K Annually, $37,000 Annually for staff
- Demand for Specialized Childcare
- Service Hours
- 4.25 Service Limit
- 5.5 Daily (29% Unfunded)
- Still not meeting parent need
- LC and PWP have wait list;
- Summer filled in 1 week, took 1 month last year
- 35%increase in waiver caseload in one year
- Increased Need and Visibility
- CCAP pays on average about 30% less than private pay rates
- Hand in Hand has doubled the number of children in CCAP served in the past year
- CCAP is often not accepted by centers (due to reimbursement rates above), ensuring quality care for all families costs HiH an estimated $81K annually
As a way to attract and retain childcare staff in the industry (which is in crisis), Iowa launched a pilot to allow all teachers in early care and education the opportunity to access childcare assistance regardless of income. This is a tremendous tool for recruiting as childcare is often a deterrent to identifying staff. The current gap this pilot program left for Hand in hand equals $37,000 annually. The benefit to the staff utilizing CCAP totals over $96,000 annually in savings for their family. Hand in Hand has seen a 30% increase in children who need specialized childcare (1:1 support all or part of the day), yet the number of children who have waiver for this service has decreased by 23%. If children who need waiver could access supportive care for the entire day HIH would generate approximately $558K annually in additional revenue to cover the care needs. In Iowa Dayhab (ages 16+) can be billed in 15-minute increments up to 4.25 hours per day. At 4.25 hours the rate is considered per diem and does not change regardless of hours of care. While many families tell us they need more than the 5.5 hours of programming Hand in Hand offers, we can't extend the day without additional funding What Can you do to help? - Share
- Support
- Advocate
- Follow them on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
- Subscribe to our newsletter
- Share our message with friends, family, co-workers, and even your local barista.
- VOLUNTEER
- Rock babies
- Read books
- Help with classroom activities
- Hang our with High Schoolers
- Volunteer with our PWP crew
- Spend the day at camp with a camper
- Help with chili cook-off
- Help financially
- Join our monthly giving group, Empowerment Partners. By financially supporting us you are helping to bridge the gap in childcare and disability services.
- SUPPORT CAMP
- July 15th - July 19th
- July 22nd - July 26th
- Ages 5+
- Scott Co. Park
- 9:00 am till 4:00 pm
- What do we do at camp?
- Have FUN!!!
- Crafts
- Archery
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Swimming
- so much more
- WHAT IS EXPECTED OF VOLUNTEERS
- Ensure campers are safe
- Ensure campers are engaged
Thank you, Ashley, for your presentation today. And, good luck with your very worthwhile mission!! |
The pool is growing! 
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