Recognizing that affordable child care is essential for children, families and the economy to thrive, Westchester County has partnered with the Child Care Council of Westchester to create the Westchester Works Scholarship for resident families who have not previously qualified for child care financial assistance.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “I know all too well the struggles and hard decisions families face when they have to answer the age old question, ‘who is going to watch the children when we go to work?’ Increasing the eligibility will allow more parents to go to work with peace of mind knowing their children are safe and in good hands,” Latimer said. “These parents will better be able to provide for their children and themselves. Supporting and increasing funding for childcare is the right thing to do for working families – period.”
Latimer’s 2022 budget contains a total of $38.9 million for childcare subsidies. An increase of $10.2 million from 2021 levels of $28.7 million. “I began my career in politics advocating for affordable child care when I first became a mother,” said Board of Legislators Chairwoman Catherine Borgia. “Adding this
funding to the 2022 budget was a high point of my career. I am overjoyed today to see this program coming to fruition, knowing that it will make a huge difference in the lives of so many families across Westchester. We know that early child care leads to lifelong positive outcomes in behavior, education, and functionality. Instituting programs like this is a true example of a legacy that outlives you. This will improve the lives and futures of Westchester residents.”
For many families, child care is often the biggest bill in the household – but this new scholarship provides relief.
• A family of two was previously ineligible if household income was $34,841.
• Now, that same family can have a gross income of up to $60,674 and qualify for the Westchester Works Child Care Scholarship.
• A family of three can earn up to $74,950, and a family of four, up to $89,226.
“These funds have immediately increased access to safe, quality child care,” said Kathy Halas, Child Care Council of Westchester executive director. “Long term, fewer Westchester families will struggle to meet basic needs, more children will reach their potential, and Westchester will be safer and healthier.”
Scholarship applications are being accepted as of April 1. To qualify for the scholarship or a child care subsidy, parents/guardians must be working and meet income eligibility.
Questions? Email scholarships@cccwny.org, or call 761-3456 x140. Employers are also encouraged to reach out to the Council to obtain information and resources to distribute to employees
(Submitted)
