COLUMBUS, Ohio-The National Guard Bureau has launched a new pilot program in Ohio and other states to provide child care during drill weekends after an initial attempt two years ago faced low participation due to a lack of available weekend care providers. The first program with Child Care Aware of America ended due to this issue, prompting a new contract with Upwards and the city of West Liberty, Iowa, expanding coverage to soldiers in 20 states. Approximately 35% of Army National Guard troops, including about 9% who are single parents, have children under 12 years old, highlighting the need addressed by the program. The new initiative aims to streamline registration and eligibility verification processes that were previously seen as cumbersome, making the service more accessible to eligible soldiers.
