NH launches grant program for child care providers
New Hampshire Launches $5 Million Grant Program to Support Child Care Providers
New Hampshire is taking a proactive approach to address the pressing issue of affordable child care by launching a $5 million grant program. The program, called “Child Care Accelerate,” aims to assist child care providers in developing a long-term business strategy for sustainable growth and success.
Facilitated by the state Department of Health and Human Services, this eight-week program is a collaboration with the business consultant company Seed Collective. It offers child care providers a unique opportunity to assess the health of their businesses, receive guidance from expert mentors, and apply for grant funding to kick-start essential projects.
Governor Chris Sununu emphasized the significance of affordable child care, stating, “Access to affordable child care is a top concern for families across the country. In addition to the substantial funding already allocated to support New Hampshire’s child care industry, these resources will empower providers to strengthen their business models and plan for long-term growth.”
Benefits for Child Care Providers and the State
The Department of Health and Human Services sees this grant program as a double win. Not only will it increase access to child care services throughout the state, but it will also contribute to economic growth and lay the foundation for sustainable businesses. Karen Hebert, Director of the DHHS Division of Economic Stability, highlighted the importance of this opportunity for child care providers, stating, ”In addition to providing high-quality care for our youngest and most vulnerable Granite Staters, New Hampshire child care providers also have the responsibility of growing and sustaining a business.”
This initiative builds upon the state’s ongoing efforts to support child care providers. Since March 2022, the Department has invested over $150 million in federal relief funds into the child care system, with a significant portion directly benefiting New Hampshire providers. Under the American Rescue Plan Act, the department has already awarded $29.7 million in discretionary funding to child care providers.
Earlier this year, The Center Square reported on the labor crunch caused by a lack of child care options in New Hampshire, as parents were forced to leave the workforce to care for their children. With the implementation of the “Child Care Accelerate” program, the state aims to alleviate this issue and create a more sustainable child care industry.
What types of support and resources are provided through the grant program to help child care providers thrive in the industry?
Businesses and implement strategies to improve their financial stability and operations. The program will provide participating providers with specialized training, coaching, and access to resources to help them not only survive but thrive in the child care industry in New Hampshire.
One of the biggest challenges facing child care providers in New Hampshire is the high cost of operating a facility while keeping tuition affordable for families. The grant program aims to address this challenge by assisting providers in identifying new revenue streams, improving their financial management, and implementing efficient operational processes. By doing so, providers can maintain high-quality care while ensuring their financial sustainability.
In addition to financial and operational support, the “Child Care Accelerate” program also focuses on professional development for child care providers. It offers training and coaching on best practices in early childhood education, ensuring that New Hampshire’s children receive the highest quality care and education.
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already critical situation for child care providers. Many faced closures, reduced enrollment, and increased operating costs due to necessary health and safety measures. This grant program provides much-needed assistance to providers as they recover from the pandemic’s impact and seek to rebuild and strengthen their businesses.
The $5 million funding for the grant program comes from the American Rescue Plan Act and demonstrates the state’s commitment to supporting child care providers and families in New Hampshire. By investing in the child care industry, the state recognizes the crucial role that high-quality early childhood education plays in children’s development and the overall well-being of families.
The “Child Care Accelerate” program is open to licensed child care providers in New Hampshire, including centers, family child care homes, and before and after school programs. Providers interested in participating can apply through the state Department of Health and Human Services website. The application process includes a review of the provider’s business history, financial data, and future growth plans.
Child care providers in New Hampshire play a vital role in supporting working families and promoting early childhood development. However, they face numerous challenges in providing affordable, high-quality care. The ”Child Care Accelerate” program is a significant step towards addressing these challenges and fostering a sustainable child care system in the state.
The launch of this $5 million grant program demonstrates New Hampshire’s commitment to supporting child care providers and investing in the future of its children. By empowering child care providers with the tools and resources they need to succeed, the state recognizes the importance of a strong child care sector in promoting economic growth and ensuring the well-being of families.
As the “Child Care Accelerate” program progresses, it is hoped that more child care providers will take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their businesses and improve their ability to provide affordable, high-quality care. The program’s impact will not only benefit individual providers but also contribute to the overall improvement of the child care industry in New Hampshire.
In conclusion, the launch of the $5 million “Child Care Accelerate” grant program in New Hampshire is a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by child care providers and ensuring the availability of affordable, high-quality care for families in the state. By investing in the well-being and success of child care providers, New Hampshire is investing in the future of its children and the prosperity of its communities.
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