American Rescue Plan child care grant approved for Hawaii: 'An essential service for working families'

Government
Three toddler eating on white table child care 1600x900
The COVID-19 pandemic has tested Hawaii's child care system, in terms of hiring and retaining staff, affordability and accessibility. | stock photo

The State of Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS) will administer nearly $80 million in grants to support child care providers and help to stabilize and improve the capabilities of the child care sector in Hawaii.

This funding opportunity, made possible as a result of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will improve the child care system by providing quick financial aid to child care providers and business owners in the state of Hawaii.

"Through Congress’ American Rescue Plan, the Hawaii Department of Health and Human Services is administering some $80 million in stabilization grants to support child care providers and stabilize and increase capacity in our critical child care sector," Rep. Ed Case (D-Kaneohe) said in an Oct. 25 Facebook post.

Family child care home providers, center-based providers and A+ program providers can apply for the grant, according to the DHS website. Applications will be accepted up until Feb. 15, 2022.

The economic disruptions that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic are the main factor driving this funding grant. "As an essential service for working families, child care plays a vital role in our state’s economic recovery, and DHS is committed to work together with child care providers and the child care community to rebuilding the child care system," according to the DHS website.