The CNMI DCCA CCDF Program announces its plan for the use of $3.25 million under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
The funding will be used to cover the following activities:
· $163,000.00 for administration
· $1,050,000.00 for child care subsidy
· $1,700,000.00 for quality activities that include addressing territory and CCDF health and safety standards/regulations, improving child care quality through the Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS) activities, training and professional development, and technical assistance.
· $340,000.00 for quality activities specifically directed for infants and toddlers.
The DCCA CCDF Program has until Sept. 30, 2022 to obligate these funds and until Sept. 30, 2023 to liquidate the funds.
The CCDF Program is considering changes to policies and program requirements, including changes as a result of the planned spending activities for the CARES Act. These changes may need a State Plan Amendment or applying for a Waiver for Extraordinary Circumstances with subsequent Amendment, if needed.
As the CCDF Program works towards making and getting approval for these changes, we ask early childhood programs such as day care centers and other child care providers to be patient. Information will be available as soon as policies and procedures are in place and will be posted in the Child Care Licensing Program (CCLP) website at www.cnmicclp.gov.mp.
As a reminder, the CARES Act that the CNMI received is meant to support activities related to before and after school programs and child care. School related activities may not be supported under these funds.
For information regarding the CCDF Program, contact Maribel Loste, Program Administrator at (670) 664-2576/2575 or email at mloste.cnmiccdf@gmail.com.
For information on how to apply to be a child care provider, contact Gordon Salas, Child Care Licensing Program Supervisor, at (670) 783-8599 or email at gbsdccacclp@gmail.com.
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