For Immediate Release: Thursday, July 8, 2021
DSS Media Contact: Max Wetz, max.wetz@state.sd.us, 605.773.3609 or Steve Long, steve.long@state.sd.us, 605.773.4565
Funding available to help child care providers
PIERRE – To help ensure child care services remain strong, the Department of Social Services (DSS) is making funding available to support child care programs and the families they serve.
“Child care providers are crucial to keeping South Dakota’s economy robust,” said DSS Cabinet Secretary Laurie Gill. “The Department of Social Services wants to help ensure these valuable resources remain part of our communities across the state.”
DSS received $25 million from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act to support stabilization of child care programs and continue services for the families they serve.
Payments to providers are based on program size and the number of children in attendance. The funding is available to child care providers registered and licensed by the Department of Social Services. Eligible providers are being notified directly of the opportunity and will have until July 23 to submit their application for funding. To learn more, please click on the Child Care tab at dss.sd.gov.
The Department of Social Services provides assistance to low-income families who need help with child care costs while parents work or attend school. Additional information including an online application is available at dss.sd.gov/childcare/childcareassistance/apply or by calling Child Care Services at 1.800.227.3020.
DSS also provides oversight, technical assistance, and support in promoting safe, healthy, and caring environments for children through licensing, registration, and quality improvement activities.
Information on state child care registration or licensing is available at dss.sd.gov/childcare/licensing or by calling a licensing representative from the Office of Licensing and Accreditation at 1.800.227.3020
