Deadline: 20-May-21
To ensure a stable, functional and flexible child care system that supports providers and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is providing direct support to licensed child care providers to offset increased costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure child care services are available to families.
Funding Information
DCYF will use licensed capacity data and Social Service Payment System (SSPS) data to calculate funding amounts. Rates are reflective of the different costs associated with each program size, as follows:
- Providers who serve families accessing subsidy
- 65 or less: $6,500
- 66 or more: $100 x licensed capacity ($20,000 maximum grant)
- Private pay providers: $6,500
Geographical Focus
The following counties are designated Communities of Concern:
- Asotin
- Clallam
- Cowlitz
- Ferry
- Grays Harbor
- Jefferson
- Kitsap
- Klickitat
- Lewis
- Mason
- Okanogan
- Pacific
- Pend Oreille
- Pierce
- Skagit
- Snohomish
- Spokane
- Stevens
- Thurston
- Wahkiakum
- Whatcom
- Yakima
What can these funds be used for?
Funds must be spent on items that support the child care business to ensure services remain
available. The approved expense categories are listed as follows:
- Business utilities such as phone, internet, electricity, gas, water, and garbage services
- Payroll (salary and benefits for employees)
- In the case of Family Home Child Care programs: the business owner
- Rent/space costs
- Family Home Child Care providers – this would be the percentage of the home (whether renting or own) used for their child care. It is recommended that providers contact their financial advisor or accountant for guidance with this.
- Food
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (such as masks, gloves)
- Cleaning supplies related to COVID-19
- Technology and internet service
Eligibility Criteria
- All licensed child care providers in Washington State who are ready and able to serve children.
- All licensed providers may apply for the grant regardless of their county or zip code. Providers in Communities of Concern or Child Care Deserts may receive their grant money earlier through expedited payment processing.
For more information, visit https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/coronavirus-covid-19/early-learning/covid19-grant-spring21