Additional CARES Act funding to be made available for early care and education

Earlier today Governor Tony Evers announced that an additional $30 million of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) dollars would be made available to support early care and education providers in Wisconsin. I want to thank the Governor for demonstrating his commitment to our youth, families and to child care and education providers who have played a vital role amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two different payment programs will be available to support these institutions. The first will provide funding support for the costs of maintaining or enhancing compliance status, quality level (YoungStar rating), and increasing health and safety practices. The second is aimed at making sure funding is available to recruit and retain high-quality staff.

Applications and program eligibility details will be made available on Wednesday, September 9^th and applications will be accepted until Friday, September 18^th at 11:59 p.m. Those wanting to apply can visit https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/childcare/payments.

I’m urging all community based organizations and regulated child care providers in need to submit an application for this funding. Now more than ever as our children head back to school, we need to make sure our families have adequate access to safe and reliable child care.