Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) is set to expand its role in early childhood education by taking over operations for Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs) in key Pennsylvania regions. This update provides crucial information for child care providers, families, and stakeholders in Regions 15 (Delaware County) and 18 (Philadelphia County), ensuring a smooth transition and continued access to vital early learning services.
Smooth Transition for ELRC 18 Provider Payments
Following the announcement of PHMC as the new ELRC agency for Region 18, a smooth transition of payment processes is underway. PHMC is working closely with the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) and Caring People Alliance (CPA) to ensure uninterrupted services. For questions regarding July payments for Child Care Works (CCW) services delivered in June, providers should contact CPA directly. PHMC will commence payments for services initiated after July 1st, starting in August. This applies to all providers who finalize their agreements by July 31, 2024. Providers who have not yet submitted their updated CCW Provider Agreements are urged to contact PHMC for assistance.
PHMC Expands ELRC Agency Role to Regions 15 and 18
Effective July 1, 2024, the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) officially designated Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) as the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) agency for both Region 15 (Delaware County) and Region 18 (Philadelphia County). This expansion builds upon PHMC’s existing role as the ELRC agency for Region 19 (Chester County). This selection process was conducted through a formal and competitive procurement coordinated with the Department of Human Services (DHS) Bureau of Financial Operations (BFO). Proposals were rigorously evaluated based on technical merits and financial eligibility.
Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs) act as central hubs, offering families comprehensive information and support in navigating child care options. They provide personalized referrals to child care providers, tailored to individual family needs and preferences. ELRCs are also responsible for administering the Child Care Works subsidized child care program, making quality care accessible to more families. Amanda Atkinson, Managing Director of Child Development and Family Services at PHMC, emphasized PHMC’s commitment: “PHMC is enthusiastic about continuing its partnership with OCDEL, dedicated to the ELRC mission of ensuring every child is prepared to learn and thrive upon entering school. We are committed to strengthening our collaborations with stakeholders and families to enhance service accessibility and quality for those seeking early learning services across Delaware, Chester, and Philadelphia counties.” For more detailed information about Early Learning Resource Centers, please visit www.elrc-phmc.org.
New Grantees for Early Learning Resource Centers Starting July 1, 2024
OCDEL’s announcement of new grantees for Early Learning Resource Centers, effective July 1, 2024, signifies a strategic shift aimed at optimizing service delivery. While some ELRC regions will see changes in service locations, it’s important to note that payments and programming for providers and families will remain unaffected. Notably, Public Health Management Corporation has been selected to oversee ELRC operations for Regions 15 and 18, while the Northwest Institute of Research will serve as the ELRC for Region 2. A detailed ELRC Map is available for further clarification. All affected providers and families within these regions are being notified of service location changes via mail, and updates regarding new ELRC addresses will be communicated as soon as they are established.
Career Opportunities with PHMC at ELRC 15 and 18
As PHMC prepares to manage ELRC operations in Regions 15 and 18, they are actively coordinating with the outgoing operators, Delaware County Human Services (for ELRC 15) and Caring People Alliance (for ELRC 18), to ensure a seamless transition. Individuals interested in joining the PHMC team and contributing to the mission of Early Learning Resource Centers in these regions are encouraged to explore employment opportunities. ELRC positions will be posted on the PHMC Careers website. For inquiries regarding ELRC 15 transition, please contact [This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.]. For ELRC 18 related questions, please use [This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.].
Conclusion
These updates highlight the ongoing evolution of Early Learning Resource Centers in Pennsylvania. PHMC’s expanded role promises to strengthen and streamline early learning services across Regions 15, 18, and 19. The focus remains steadfast on ensuring consistent support and resources for both child care providers and families navigating the early learning landscape.
