On October 23rd, 2007, the Kids Are Priority One Coalition launched a new multi-year campaign aimed at increasing the state's investment in its Child Care Subsidy Program. This program, which is funded through a combination of federal and state funds, helps thousands of low- and moderate-income working parents in Vermont pay for child care.
Thanks to a push from the Governor's office and tireless advocacy by parents, early childhood professionals, employers and community leaders across the state, the legislature increased the state's FY10 investment in early childhood education by $5 million. This increase includes funding for the Vermont's Child Care Financial Assistance (Subsidy) Program.
To become involved in the campaign, contact Kim Friedman, Organizing Director, at (802) 348-9879 or kfriedman@svcable.net.
CAMPAIGN TOOL KIT
- Child Care Subsidy Fact Sheet
- Chart Comparing Existing & Updated Subsidy Eligibility Guidelines and Market Rates
- Letter to the Editor (Caledonian Record)
- Vermont's 2008 Child Care Market Rate Survey
- Summary of Statewide Meeting (8/13/09) to Discuss DCF's Proposed Changes to the Subsidy Program (version #2)
- Coalition's Response to Version 2
- DCF's Final Proposal (version 3)
- Summary of changes as approved by the legislature's Joint Fiscal Committee
- Strengthening Families Grants
- Information posted on Child Development Division's web site
The Kids Are Priority One Coalition has expressed concern regarding the potential impact of these proposed changes on: (1) programs' ability to meet the needs of children who need extra support and (2) program quality. However, all in all, despite some misgivings and nervousness, there seems to be a consensus that this overall plan is a step forward for Vermont's Child Care Financial Assistance Program and for our early childhood system in general.