Gov. Ned Lamont has announced a new child care program for parents working on the front lines during the coronavirus pandemic.

CTCARES for Frontline Workers Child Care Subsidy Program was started to help essential workers struggling to pay for child care during the pandemic.

The program applies to health care workers, first responders, grocery workers, child care workers, home/group home care workers for seniors, youth, mental health, or people with disabilities, and state facility workers.

Recipients with one child will receive $200 each week for up to six weeks; for two or more children, up to a maximum of $500 per family each week for up to six weeks. If you work eight to 20 hours each week and have one child then you will receive $100 each week for up to six weeks; two or more children, up to a maximum of $250 per family each week for up to six weeks.

The Office of Early Childhood says they will use a $10 million fund to help front-line workers pay for licensed child care at a child care center, family child care home, or group child care home.