JCPenney in partnership to help its working parents

JCPenney is partnering with the largest childcare network in the United States.

The retailer is teaming up with WeeCare to increase access to quality childcare  for Penney’s 50,000 employees across the country. Associates in all areas of the company, from stores to supply chain facilities to corporate offices, will be eligible for the new benefit. 

The partnership will leverage WeeCare’s vast network of in-home daycares, nannies and babysitters to provide working parents and guardians with access to quality, dependable  and affordable childcare options. The  program aims to provide care flexibility whether through cost savings, a shorter drive to and from childcare centers or allowing working families more flexibility, according to Penney.

Starting August 2, WeeCare's dedicated care managers will be available 24/7 to assist Penney employees in matching with the best caregivers to meet their specific needs, organizing daycare tours and provider interviews, and facilitating enrollment to begin care. (The flexibility of WeeCare’s network enables parents to find daycares, nannies, or babysitters conveniently located either to their home or place of employment.)  The care managers will, in essence, take care of all the time-consuming tasks that come with finding the right caregiver. 

“We are always reviewing and refining our offerings to enable our associates and their families to thrive,” said Andre Joyner, chief human resources officer for JC Penney. “Our partnership with WeeCare will make it easier for our dedicated JCPenney associates to find the care they need for their family, allowing them greater flexibility, savings, and support.”

JCPenney operates more than 650 stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, along with its e-commerce site. The company is celebrating its 125 anniversary this year.

[Read More: J.C. Penney marks 120th anniversary with omnichannel campaign]

With the launch of the new offerings package, JCPenney said it is making a significant effort to meet the needs of families — and working mothers in particular — across the organization.

"Creating truly parent-friendly workplaces is only possible if employees are supported in accessing affordable, high-quality childcare,” said WeeCare CEO and co-founder Jessica Chang. “WeeCare is excited to partner with JCPenney to make that vision a reality for the company’s employees. We also hope that by providing this additional benefit, more mothers whose employment has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising childcare prices will be able to return to the workforce without having to forgo childcare."