Women who work in nontraditional jobs such as construction just got a boost from the government - a grant for $375,000 to help with child care.

Local officials gathered at the headquarters for Nontraditional Employment for Women. It’s a nonprofit that supports women and nonbinary people working in the building, construction, maintenance and transportation industries.  The grant was made possible by state Sen. Jessica Ramos and other leaders.

“Construction work is a little different, and the times are not easily accommodating for many programs, and so we wanted to make sure that NEW had all of the tools necessary in order to invite more women into the program - because we’re hoping to have lots of shovels in the ground very, very quickly,” Ramos told the crowd.

The money goes directly to the child care providers who support women who work in construction. The grant covers about $800 of child care per month, which can cost as much as $1,600 for an infant – and experts say that’s a conservative estimate.

“Financially, it has not been easy. Honestly, I’ve been in arrears, I’ve had to dip into my 401(k), and there have been many times when I’m like, 'How am I going to pay Jeanine,' who is the lady that helps me.  She comes before 6 in the morning when I have to be at work at 7 ... and this grant comes in every two weeks, and I’m very grateful because it’s like one less stress,” electrician Melissa Castillo said.

The funds will be going specifically to women involved with NEW and other apprenticeship programs that are sharing this grant. Click HERE to find out if you qualify for the grant.