Lee University’s Early Learning Center (ELC) received the American Rescue Plan Act’s Stabilization Subgrant for Childcare Providers and was awarded $120,315.   

“The Early Learning Center is a vital resource for the Lee community,” said Vanessa Hammond, director of grants. “As with most childcare centers, ELC experienced intense challenges during the COVID-19 crisis, particularly with staffing and safety protocols for children. This federal grant has provided welcome relief and support for the ELC and its staff to continue serving children with excellence.” 

The money will be primarily used to purchase sensory toys for all ages, indoor and outdoor furniture, along with new tablets for digital learning.  

The Stabilization Subgrant issues financial relief to childcare providers to help offset unexpected business costs associated with the pandemic and stabilize their operations so they may continue to provide care. The federal grant was administered to the ELC through the State of Tennessee Department of Human Services.  

“This grant is allowing us to update and replace equipment and toys for kids,” said Anna Anderson, director of the ELC. “We are grateful for donations from the community, but we are so excited to give the children newer toys and a wider variety of options!”     

The Early Learning Center is a childcare facility located on Lee University’s campus that is licensed through the Department of Human Services. For over 15 years, the ELC has served children from the ages of six weeks to five years old whose parents are full-time employees at Lee.   

For more information on the American Rescue Plan, visit whitehouse.gov/american-rescue-plan.