Senator John W. Mannion Highlights Historic $1.1B State Childcare Investment and Announces Application Period Now Open for $100M State Fund to Expand or Launch Childcare Businesses

CLAY – Senator John W. Mannion (D-Geddes) today highlighted the state budget’s historic $1.1B childcare investment during a visit to the True North Center for Children in Clay. Senator Mannion also strongly urged Central New York childcare providers and entrepreneurs to submit applications to a new $100M state fund to expand or launch new businesses. 

Senator John W. Mannion said, “Addressing the inadequacy of quality and affordable childcare was a top priority for the Senate in budget negotiations and I’m pleased to deliver this historic $1.1B investment for Central New York families and childcare providers. There is also $100M available right now for childcare providers to expand or start a business. I am determined to make sure that Central New York gets its fair share of these resources and anyone who needs assistance with the application process should contact my office immediately.”

Childcare functions as a social and learning environment for many students. It is a productive and much-needed early introduction to the classroom. Children have opportunities to exercise small acts of independence through interactions with peers which helps them develop important social skills, such as sharing, taking turns, negotiating, and self-control. It helps them to foster relationships, to learn social etiquette, and allows them to learn from controlled interactions with peers.

The average cost for a toddler in daycare is $9,000. This, coupled with the fact that most areas in Central New York qualify as childcare deserts, is detrimental to families and the regional economy. The $100M is for areas of New York State in the most need for expanded childcare options with $70M going toward opening new childcare programs and $30M to expand existing childcare programs. In order to be eligible, new businesses must have already applied for a childcare license.

 During his visit to True North Center for Children, Senator Mannion also delivered dozens of free COVID Test Kits for staff and families. 

 Cindi Fowler, Owner of True North Center for Children said, “Professional early childhood education and care is essential in our society and I’m so grateful to provide this service for the community and for Senator Mannion’s support of our industry. A billion dollar investment is long overdue and speaks to the magnitude of the current problems. I’m optimistic that we are now turning a corner and this investment will create more quality seats and keep costs reasonable for families and providers.”

 Lori A. Schakow, Executive Director of Child Solutions CNY said, “I sincerely appreciate Senator Mannion for championing an increased investment for child care in the New York State budget. The state’s commitment of $7 billion over the next four years will more than double the current investment for child care. The $1.8 billion investment this year will increase the eligibility for a child care subsidy to assist working families pay for child care. The new budget also includes $340 million for grants focused on stabilizing the child care workforce, and $50 million for capital projects. This historic investment in the child care system will make access to high-quality child care more affordable for all children in our community

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