Applications now open for childcare providers to expand services

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Applications are open starting Friday to receive federal grants for improving childcare access.

Gov. Hochul announced that the state will provide $30 million to help expand and pay salaries at childcare programs that operate in "childcare deserts", communities that have traditionally lacked quality programs.

The funding is part of the $100 million that New York State received from the American Rescue Plan Act, which Congress passed. The state’s 2022 budget included plans to distribute the grants through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.

The grants can be used for both expanding childcare programs and afterschool programs for school children. Some funding is specifically for children with special needs. There are also grants for small child care centers, family child care programs, and programs with non-traditional hours.

You can learn how to apply for a grant and more about what the funding can be used for in a document the state released on Friday.

Hochul previously announced a $70 million grant program for childcare on April 11, also funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. More than 1,100 people have applied for those grants.