Network Now Offers 24-Hour Child Care

A child care network established in March by Mission College for parents who work or attend school is now offering around-the-clock care for infants and toddlers, college administrators said.

Formed through a $513,000 grant from the state Department of Education, the Family Child Care Homes Network initially offered low-income parents free or low-cost child care from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Two new 24-hour child care providers have joined the network, opening up a limited number of spots for parents who work late night or early morning hours when most child care providers do not work, said program director Julie Ruelas.

“We found that the community needed 24-hour infant and toddler care, and our licensed child care homes are able to provide it,” Ruelas said.

In addition to expanding its hours, the network, Ruelas said, is planning to offer service in new locations, including Sunland-Tujunga and North Hollywood.

About 70 children currently attend 15 network child care facilities in Sylmar, North Hills, Mission Hills, Panorama City, Granada Hills and Van Nuys.

“Parents who work or go to school and who can’t afford child care are finding the service a lifesaver,” Ruelas said.

In August, the network also began holding bimonthly parent meetings that will continue throughout the year. The meetings, which are free to the public, involve subjects such as nutrition, discipline and parent-child relations.

For more information, call the Family Child Care Homes at (818) 364-7881.