Blythe Keeler Robinson, President and CEO, Sheltering Arms
It has been a year and a few months since the pandemic hit, and families with little to no resources, including here in Atlanta and the state of Georgia, are still trying to recover. Some of the most vulnerable Sheltering Arms families continue to rely on us for food, diapers and personal hygiene products, along with resources for bill and rent assistance and mental health support.
Sheltering Arms had the pleasure of hosting Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) at our Educare Atlanta Center to help spread awareness about the new Child Tax Credit – critical relief for families in Georgia that could make a big difference.
Starting July 15 and through the end of the year, eligible families will receive advance monthly payments of up to $300 per child. They will receive the balance of the full amount when they file their 2021 taxes. This program is part of the Biden administration’s economic aid package, the American Rescue Plan, which increases the existing tax benefit from $2,000 up to $3,600.
Imagine how this could benefit families living in poverty. A family that has three children under the age of 18 could receive an extra $750-$900 per month for the balance of this year. As a childcare provider, we see parents who have to make hard financial choices just to provide diapers for their babies, a necessity that is not provided through any form of government assistance. This tax relief could make a big difference in helping them rebuild from negative financial impacts and get back on track.
Imagine the impact on our communities if Congress passes the Plan to ensure that families continue to get this relief for years to come. Some of the most under-resourced areas will become more revitalized as families continue to move forward on the road to economic recovery. And we will see children who are stronger, healthier and more successful in school and life.
