HR helps solve summer emergency childcare needs

In a few short weeks, the young children of Penn employees will be able to shout the familiar rhyme, “No more pencils, no more books...” as schools close for the summer break.

Many will spend their summer days at camps or participating in other supervised activities while their parents are at work. But if an emergency childcare issue arises, the Division of Human Resources (HR) is here to help.

Penn’s partnership with Parents in a Pinch provides access to temporary in-home care services, any time of day, seven days a week.

Marilyn Kraut, director of HR’s Quality of Worklife programs, says there are many situations in which parents may need last-minute help in caring for their child during the workday. Summer camp arrangements might fall through, or school may end before camp begins, or the daycare center closes when employees need to be at work.

“No matter how well organized you are, there may be times when there are no daycare, camp or summer program options and you need to be at work,” she says.

Childcare is available for children up to 17 years of age who reside at home. Also, adult care is available for immediate or extended family members 18 years of age and older, whether they live at home with Penn employees or somewhere else. Parents in a Pinch prefers to get 24 hours notice for their services, but they can accommodate emergency short-notice requests as well.

“The earlier you let the program know, the easier it is for them to find someone to fill your needs,” says Kraut.

Penn offsets the cost of the care through a subsidy program based on employees annual salary.

For more information about Penn’s backup care program, visit the HR website, or call Parents in a Pinch at 800-688-4697.

Summer Care