As offices reopen and parents return to work, finding affordable child care can be difficult for low-income families. At the same time, early childcare providers are trying to stay open and provide safe environments for youngsters. Two programs included in the Child Care and Development Block Grant program received a total of $52.5 billion to assist families and early child care providers.
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) - $28.5 billion
States, U.S. territories, and Tribal governments are using the funds from the CCDF to help low-income families access child care so they can work or attend school or job training. Financial assistance – in the form of direct payments or vouchers − is available to families with children ages 13 and under. (Find your state’s funding on the map below.)
Find information on child care assistance in your state at the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child Care.
The Child Care Stabilization Grant -
$24 billion
This program is intended to help early child care providers stay open during the pandemic. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, states, U.S. territories, and Tribal governments can use the money for a range of expenses, including:
- Staffing costs
- Rent or mortgage payments
- Personal protective equipment
- Training related to health and safety practices
If you are a childcare provider, you will find information on applying for a Child Care Stabilization grant in your state at Child Care Technical Assistance Network.