In total, 55 of the families we serve lost a job, had a reduction in hours, reduction in pay, or was furloughed due to COVID-19. We assist families that are struggling, allowing them to keep their children enrolled at HWCEC. We also:

• Implemented an emergency services early education program to support essential workers

• Implemented a school-age summer care program

• Provided food gift cards, diapers, formula, coats, etc.

Current Needs

Temporary Scholarship Assistance: Temporary scholarship assistance is extended to families currently enrolled at the Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center that are in the essential workforce in Northwest Arkansas in response to COVID-19. The amount extended is determined based on the circumstances of the individual family.

School-Aged Care Classrooms: One classroom for school-age children has been set up in the training facilities on our campus. The classroom is separate from the early education classrooms, with separate restroom facilities, with direct access to outdoor play. The program is staffed with full-time degreed teachers experienced in elementary education, with age-appropriate curriculum, activities, and meal service. HWCEC has worked with the Arkansas Department of Human Services to establish emergency licensure for school-aged out of school care and follows CDC and Arkansas Department of Health guidelines for health checks on students before entering the classroom.