The state recently launched the Child Care Stabilization Grant program and, through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, has distributed $335,859,284 to 3,961 child care centers and family child-care homes. Stabilization grant applications remain open on a rolling basis.
Stabilization Grants have been rewarded to 90% of eligible applicants, which include child care centers located in 99 counties; 88% of funding received was used to compensate and support workforce. The centers have also dispersed funds to help with facility, staff and children, as well as partially assisting with health and dental insurance costs.
The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act helped make the NC Child Care Stabilization Grants possible — established to help parents get child care that is affordable but also high quality. The grants will assist in providing wages and benefits to teachers, and the funding promotes equity for recipients.
Eligible applicants include private, licensed early care and learning programs, for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, family child care homes, and faith-based centers. Funds may be used for personnel costs, mental health supports, house payments (rent, mortgage, utilities, facility maintenance, insurance, etc), personal protective equipment (PPE), supplies, and goods or services required for appropriate child care.
More information can be found at ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov.
Have tips or comments? Email [email protected]
