Kansas child care providers have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, even when other businesses closed. Yet many are struggling to stay afloat. Prioritizing the health and safety of young children comes with increased costs for child care programs, at a time when revenue for child care businesses has been unpredictable.  Revenue is directly impacted by lower enrollment as parents balance work-from-home options or job insecurity.

In many ways, Kansas is on the road to recovery, but child care providers continue to struggle, needing support now that offsets increased supply costs, balances operating budgets, and creates lasting solutions. We’re fortunate that our state recognizes the essential role that child care plays in ensuring our economy not only recovers but thrives.

Sustaining child care.

Child Care Aware of Kansas is thrilled to partner with Kansas Department for Children and Families to bring $49 million in financial support for child care program operations. Launched on July 1, the Sustainability Grants program will provide $5,000 for family child care providers and up to $60,000 for large child care centers. Any licensed child care program in the state that meets compliance standards is eligible to apply.

Join us.

Solving child care challenges may seem daunting, but we’re here to help. We connect all who have a stake in child care – parents, child care providers, businesses, local and state leaders, and community members – to the information and ideas they need to take action. Learn more about how you can make a difference, and join the conversation.

Young children are still in need of high quality child care. When we ensure all families have access to quality child care options – regardless of income level or where they live – we build the critical infrastructure necessary for our businesses to succeed, our communities to flourish, and our children to grow into happy, heathy, productive Kansans.

We can do this. Together.