Challenges

Access, Worker Issues

Location

Arizona

Stakeholders

Local Government

Beneficiaries

Frontline Workers, Parents, Children

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Overview

Faced with staffing shortages exacerbated by COVID-19, Phoenix’s aviation authority launched a childcare subsidy program for airport workers. The program covers part of daycare tuition for eligible employees and has also pursued other investment initiatives to scale the program.

Key Impact Metrics

  • 37
    airport employees registered in first couple of months
  • $4M
    initial investment

Problem

The employees of Sky Harbor Airport faced economic challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Phoenix City Council identified childcare as the leading challenge affecting airport employees. This challenge was even more crucial as the airport was preparing to meet the demand of increased airport traffic as travel began to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Solution

The Phoenix Aviation Authority introduced the Phoenix Airport Worker Child Care Scholarship Program to provide childcare financial assistance to help airport workers return to and maintain employment. The program targets vital frontline workers—such as TSA and maintenance workers who support the essential travel operations of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Results

  • Beneficiary Impact
    37 airport employees registered within months of the program
  • Employee Impact
    Improved recruitment and retention of employees
  • Financial Results
    $4 million initial investment, $1 million further investment committed

Replication Tips

  • Secure city infrastructure funding: Secure capital funding through city budget allocations specifically earmarked for childcare facility construction.
  • Employer co-investment: Engage airlines and other airport-based employers early to contribute financially or in-kind, thereby increasing available resources and shared responsibility.
  • Simplify enrollment: Establish user-friendly enrollment processes to reduce administrative barriers, ensuring employees can easily access benefits.

Suggested Implementation Timeline

~5-8 months

Sources