Recent state budget cuts could affect whether some families can afford childcare. Parents who apply for childcare subsidies through the state Department of Human Services face an institutional freeze that took effect Wednesday.
DHS communications manager Debra Martin told The Journal Record’s Christie Tapp the money from the program simply ran out:
“This was a safety net for so many families,” Martin said. “One of our concerns is that families who need this help will not be able to work, or will leave their children with unqualified caregivers.” In 2015, more than 59,000 children received subsidized child care in the state, according to the DHS. This is the first time the department has suspended child care subsidies for low-income families. Facilities such as Harrah Church and Early Learning Center have started a waiting list because incoming parents cannot afford child care without assistance.
Pastor Jeremy Davidson said he’s concerned about how to keep his program going. The move also comes at a time when the church is spending more on transportation because schools in the area can no longer afford to transport students.
From Tapp:
Although assistance is limited throughout the state, some qualified individuals could receive benefits from tribal child care subsidies. “I do expect (enrollment) to increase,” said Monona Dill, child care assistant director for the Choctaw Nation. “People who would normally go to the state can apply, if there is a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood.” Martin said the temporary hold is directly related to the state budget cuts. “This was a difficult decision we were forced to make,” Martin said. “The money for this program simply ran out and we had no choice but to freeze enrollment because we cannot fund the program.”
DHS said it is tracking applications for the assistance so that it can notify families if the freeze is lifted.
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