NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As schools close across Tennessee to prevent the spread of coronavirus, more and more parents are in need of childcare.
That's why, for now, childcare facilities are remaining open.
"Childcare facilities are a very important part of communities," said Gov. Bill Lee. "There's a great need for childcare right now."
He said Tuesday that the state was working with child care facilities to make sure they are following CDC guidelines on hygiene and keeping kids separated or in small groups as much as possible.
To help, the state is also loosening some restrictions on those providers to make it easier for them as more children will need daycare. The state will also temporarily suspend regular inspections.
In addition, the state is guaranteeing state subsidies to those facilities that receive them, even if their business declines during the pandemic.
Next week, the state plans to announce $10 million of COVID-19 emergency grants to help childcare facilities through the crisis.
Those will be distributed through the Department of Human Services.
Gov. Lee is also encouraging local churches to maybe adopt a school and offer childcare help to those families in need. He also hopes people will help their neighbors through this crisis.