HTC students to receive help with child care costs
Brooklyn Park, September 24, 2021 – Hennepin Technical College (HTC) is stepping up efforts to assist students who are parents of young children by launching a new program to help make childcare more affordable.
HTC received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program.
The grant will provide funding to help cover child-care expenses for low-income student parents at HTC. Additionally, student parents will receive academic support and information about community resources that address their basic needs such as housing and food.
“We know that student parents who have access to reliable, affordable childcare are more likely to persist and succeed in college,” said Jessica Lauritsen, vice president, Student Affairs, HTC. “The grant will have a positive impact on the graduation rates of our student parents and allow them to work toward a better life for their children and families.”
Hennepin County families face an average cost of $264 per week for full-time care which is the highest average cost in Minnesota. Research indicates average costs are even higher near HTC’s two campus locations. The unaffordability of child care creates the greatest barrier for HTC low-income student parents.
Student parents who receive Pell grants will be eligible to apply for the program beginning in late fall 2021 and must maintain good academic standing while participating.
HTC has campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie and will partner with child care centers in those areas. Student parents will select a child care center from the list of participating child care centers and provide a co-pay for the services they receive. Through the grant, a subsidy is provided to the child care centers.
For student parents who need more information, contact Brittani Senser, social worker, HTC.
About Hennepin Technical College
Founded in 1972, Hennepin Technical College (HTC) is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college has a diverse student population and offers degree and non-degree courses in over 45 programs. HTC is a member of Minnesota State, which includes 30 colleges and seven state universities.