OMAHA — In an effort to build up Nebraska’s childcare workforce, the state is preparing to distribute $66 million in incentives that include worker stipends and student loan repayments.

The funds target providers and employees and are expected to expand access to quality childcare.

Applications for the dollars will be accepted starting in December, state officials announced Thursday.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, from Nov. 14-17, have scheduled virtual information sessions in English and Spanish.

“The lack of quality childcare options nationwide has been a continuing barrier forcing families to make difficult decisions such as leaving the workforce,” said Stephanie Beasley, director of the department’s Children and Family Services division. “This investment into Nebraska’s critical workforce will help boost childcare options for working families and support professionals doing this important work.”

Mike Medwick, strategic communications manager for First Five Nebraska, which focuses on early childhood care, said the funds are a step in the right direction.

“Anything that moves the needle is important,” he said. “There is a long way to go.”

Medwick said Nebraska ranks sixth in the nation, according to Census data, for the number of children under age 6 who have all parents in the household working.

That reinforces, he said, the “pressing need” for quality child care and workers to serve that population.

Medwick said a variety of strategies are necessary to address the growing demand for professionals in the field.

Challenges include a “high level of commitment in return for low compensation,” he said.

“We have a lot of work to do to make that profession more viable to get into and to thrive,” said Medwick.

First Five Nebraska expects the coming legislative session to see proposals to attract more childcare workers.

DHHS spokesman Jeff Powell said the shortage was a hardship before the pandemic and has only gotten worse.

The $66 million comes from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act Child Care Stabilization Grant Administration Assistance.

Additional grant funding for childcare providers to expand operations are to become available early next year, according to DHHS.

This story was originally published by Nebraska Examiner, an editorially independent newsroom providing a hard-hitting, daily flow of news. It is part of the national nonprofit States Newsroom. Find more at nebraskaexaminer.com.