West Cleveland News

State Representative Daniel P. Troy urges eligible child care facilities to apply for the fourth round of child care stabilization grants, offering $200 million for workforce, access expansion, operating costs, and mental health initiatives, while also announcing a base rate increase for publicly funded child care. This initiative takes place amid growing concern about the availability and affordability of quality childcare in the region.

The following are key takeaways from Troy's announcement: According to the press release, Troy said "I am pleased to announce this additional funding for child care centers. Too many of our working parents are unable to participate in the labor market because there is a lack of affordable, quality child care. This available grant money is a win for families and a win for businesses that desperately need more workers," said Representative Troy. "Also, quality child care programs have proven to place our young children on a path towards positive learning outcomes."

During his address to the House Finance Committee Hearings, Rep. Troy emphasized several critical points: According to the press release, during House Finance Committee Hearings, Representative Troy emphasized the necessity for increased childcare availability, particularly to support single working mothers in staying or re-entering the workforce. Throughout the operating budget process, he highlighted the potential to address workforce shortages, particularly in critical areas such as home health care and other physical and mental health programs by ensuring an adequate supply of direct service providers.

In connection with this effort, major strides are being made by Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association: According to Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association's website, the organization is looking forward to administering Ohio's Child Care Stabilization Sub-Grants approved by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services through federal stabilization relief funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. Totaling $14.99 billion, these funds aim to enhance the child care system and support Ohio's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with Phase 4 stabilization grants focusing on workforce supplements, program business development supports, and special needs services.