Applications are currently being accepted for $343 million in federal funding for childcare providers in New York.
The NYS Office of Children and Family Services will administer the funds, according to a recent release from the Governor’s Office.
State releases eligibility requirements, funding use guidelines
Eligible providers must be OCFS-licensed or OCFS-registered child care programs, New York City-permitted group daycares or enrolled legally exempt group child care programs.
There are two application windows, depending on provider type.
Applications opened for those who received the first round of Stabilization Grants on July 5. Applications for all school-age child care programs and new providers who were licensed post-launch of first round of Stabilization Grants will be accepted starting on August 22.
At least 75% of funding must be used for the below purposes:
- Bonuses or increases in wages
- Contributions towards health insurance costs that reduce these costs for staff
- Contributions to staff retirement plans that supplement any employer contribution
- Supplemental educational advancement or tuition reimbursement
- Mental health supports and services for staff
The remaining 25% can be used for other eligible expenses, according to the press release. More information is available here.
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Applications available through November 30
To streamline and simplify the application process, providers will apply through a single online application. Technical assistance support will be available by Child Care Resource and Referral agencies to help child care providers complete the online application.
Click here for agency contact information. Providers are encouraged to review the Statement of Grant Interest carefully for more details on eligibility.
Applications will be available here starting on July 5 , 2022 through November 30, 2022.
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What state officials are saying
“This second round of stabilization funding represents an important opportunity and investment to help further stabilize the child care sector with specific investments in the workforce supports,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “These new grants for child care providers will strengthen their infrastructure and support their workforce, who have been and continue to be critical to supporting our children.”
OCFS Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, “OCFS continues to hear child care providers loud and clear. We are honored to administer this funding that is focused on the child care industry’s workforce. These workers do some of the most challenging and important work in our communities, and these supports are long overdue.”
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