Phoenix is offering a new benefit for qualified workers at Sky Harbor Airport. Applications are being accepted for a child care scholarship program.

Badged employees with the Aviation Department, airlines, contractors and concessions who meet income requirements can get child care costs covered — for example a household of two with an annual income under $55,000.

Last September, the City Council approved $4 million in federal relief funds for the program. 

Matthew Heil, special projects administrator, said businesses hope it will help them recruit and retain workers at Sky Harbor.  

“We have seen really positive feedback from the businesses because they really value the investment this is making in employees because it’s supporting their employees and also supporting their operation,” said Heil.

Recruiting and retaining employees for some airport businesses can be challenging.

“It is a more secure facility, you don’t necessarily get to park close to your final work location,” Heil said.

The city has contracted with Valley of the Sun United Way to handle applications. Qualified families can choose among 400 child care facilities that are part of the Quality First program, a statewide program administered by First Things First to support early childhood learning.

Applications can be accessed online or by calling 866-973-0012.

Who qualifies?

Children who have a parent or legal guardian who is a Phoenix Sky Harbor badged worker, who live in households with annual gross income of 300% of the federal poverty level or less, and are age birth to 5 not yet eligible for kindergarten.