Funding will provide for services through 2024
BATH – Childcare is now available for more families in Steuben County, thanks to the New York State Office of Children & Family Services Child Care Block Grant amounting to $9.9 million from Apr. 1, 2023 through Sept. 30, 2024.
Approved by the county Legislature Monday, the 18-month grant allows for an additional $2.5 million in funds to be paid through the current year. The remainder will be used to cover anticipated costs in 2024.
Steuben County and other counties had been forced to create a childcare waitlist in June when state funding declined.
The grant funds essential childcare services paid for through the county Department of Social Services.
The revised allocation accommodates current eligible families and the Oct. 1 increase in income eligibility up to 85 percent of the state median income — now $99,250 for a family of four. All eligible families are guaranteed 12 months of eligibility.
County Manager Jack Wheeler noted the county DSS and its partner agency, ProAction of Steuben and Yates, Inc., have worked aggressively to secure the funding, which was cut from the state budget.
“There was a lot of advocacy for the service,” he said. “(DSS Commissioner) Kathy Muller and (Deputy Commissioner) Lise Reynolds are to be commended for their very hard work.
For more information on eligibility, call Pro Action Child Care Council, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday at (607) 776-2126, ext. 2113.
Applications may be submitted in-person, through mail or email.
The mailing address for childcare assistance applications: Pro Action Child Care Council, 117 E. Steuben St., Bath, NY 14810
E-mail address for applicants and recipients to send applications:
· Jodie Pierce-Case Manager (clients with last name A-L) piercej@proactioninc.org
· Jeannie Jones-Case Manager (clients with last name M-Z) jonesj@proactioninc.org
