I want to let you know about the New York Forward Child Care Expansion Incentive Program, a grant program created just for New York child care providers through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

I want to share some information with you about the New York Forward Loan Fund, which could help support your child care business. In addition, the state Office of Children and Family Services held a conference call with stakeholders on May 19 to discuss important concerns for child care providers. 

I want to update you about the support available to your child care program through the extension of waivers and the CARES materials grant. Read good news regarding your subsidy payments and apply for the CARES grant to get materials and supplies for your program

I wanted to share with you this COVID-19 testing information from the state Department of Health. Essential workers, including child care providers, who do not have access to testing may call the New York State COVID-19 Hotline at 1-888-364-3065 or visit covid19screening.health.ny.gov to be screened for eligibility. If you are considered eligible, you may schedule an appointment at one of the state’s testing sites.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently announced that $30 million in federal funds will pay for supplies for child care providers as well as for the child care fees for eligible essential workers. The state will use funds authorized through the recently passed federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, otherwise known as the CARES Act.

Thirteen years ago, home-based child care providers marked a milestone in their campaign to join the UFT.