LINCOLN – Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Children and Family Services (CFS) are investing over $26 million for child care programs to better access to quality child care services throughout Nebraska through the Business and Child Care Partnership Grant program.
The program, funded through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, will work with businesses and child care providers to assist in opportunities for growth and provide opportunities for those wanting to start a licensed child care program in the state.
“Our child care providers are essential for communities to thrive. We have a deep appreciation for their abilities and service. The Business and Child Care Partnership Grant offers funding to help existing programs expand, and new programs to begin,” said DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith.
DHHS will offer virtual informational sessions to give details about program eligibility. The sessions will cover:
- Grant overview
- How to apply
- Q&A
The Business and Child Care Partnership Grant application opens Tuesday, January 17, 2023. Dates of informational sessions are:
- Monday, January 9, 6-7 p.m.
- Tuesday, January 10, 7:30-8:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, January 11, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
To register for a session, visit: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/CCDF-HowToApply.aspx
In addition to the Business and Child Care Partnership Grant, DHHS introduced the Workforce Stipend and Loan Repayment grant program. This focuses on child care workers to assist their financial well-being and mold the future of early child care and early education in Nebraska by incentivizing workers to stay in the field.
