Madison – This week, the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) submitted a formal request to the Joint Committee on Finance to use $51 million to support Wisconsin’s early care and education providers. This funding comes from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). DCF recently received authority to propose grant programs through legislation that passed the Assembly on April 14. Representative Dave Considine (D-Baraboo) released the following statement:
“I support this proposal because it provides needed funding to the hardworking and dedicated child care providers in this state. COVID-19 has not lessened their commitment. I have heard from child care providers from the 81st who have stepped up and met the challenge of providing care in these times. Oftentimes this care is at their own expense.
“DCF is proposing three grant programs. One of these grants will support those providing care for essential workforce families. Another will provide hazard pay for early care educators working during the public health emergency. The third grant program will support programs which closed due to the public health emergency caused by COVID-19. I support these programs because I have heard from my constituents about the need for safe, affordable, and quality child care.
The proposed grant programs must be submitted to the Joint Committee on Finance for review. DCF can begin taking applications and distributing funds once the proposal is approved.
