(The Center Square) — Nevada parents facing the high cost of child care can apply for state taxpayer money under an expanded state program.
According to the Center for American Progress, 72% of Nevada residents live in what is considered a “child care desert,” which is a census tract with at least 50 children under the age of five. years old who does not have a childcare option or a request for at least three children. for each available on-call time slot. Only residents of Utah have less access to child care.
Gov. Steve Sisolak announced the Nevada Child Care Fund would expand access on Thursday.
“Nevada’s working families need support. This funding will help these families increase their household income, stay in their homes, support their families and save for the future,” Governor Sisolak said. “Quality, affordable child care is essential to the success of our children and families and will support our local businesses and economy by creating a more stable workforce.
The program is a $50 million expansion of the state’s existing child care program. The additional funds will reduce the total cost of child care for eligible families. The program is also available to more families after the state raised the income threshold.
“The Department of Health and Human Services is working in a variety of areas to support child care providers and families across the state,” said Karissa Loper Machado, child care program agency manager. and child development. “More families will be eligible for help than ever before – I encourage families to read our FAQs and contact us to find out if we can help lower the cost of childcare for your household.”
