Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that from today, applications for $ 343 million in federal funding will be accepted that will directly benefit childcare providers and continue to stabilize the industry. The New York State Office of Children and Family Services administers the funds.
“This second round of stabilization funding represents an important opportunity and investment to further stabilize the childcare sector with specific investments in labor force support.” said Governor Hochul. “These new childcare providers’ grants will strengthen their infrastructure and support their workforce, which has been and continues to be critical in supporting our children.”
Eligible providers must be OCFS-licensed or registered child care programs, New York City-authorized group day care, or enrolled legally exempt group child care programs (enrolled at an enrollment agency). There will be two application windows, depending on the type of provider: July 5 for those who received the first round of stabilization grants and August 22 for all school-going childcare programs and new providers licensed after the first round of stabilization grants was introduced. .
To support the childcare workforce and to assist with recruitment and retention efforts, at least 75% of this funding should be used for the following, including:
- Bonuses or increases in wages
- Contributions to health insurance costs that reduce these costs for staff
- Contributions to staff retirement plans that supplement any employer contribution
- Supplementary educational progress or tuition fee
- Mental health support and staff services
The remaining 25% can be used on other qualifying expenses. More information about the award can be found here.
OCFS Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, “OCFS continues to hear childcare providers loud and clear. We are honored to administer this funding that is focused on the childcare industry’s workforce. These workers do some of the most challenging and important work in our communities, and this support has long been in arrears. . “
To streamline and simplify the application process, providers will apply through a single online application. Technical assistance support will be available through child care resource and referral agencies to assist child care providers in completing the online application. Please click here for agency contract information. Providers are encouraged to carefully review the state of grant interest for more details on eligibility.
Applications will be available here from 5 July to 30 November 2022.
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