Rockland Child Care Subsidy Program Taking Applications

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — The Child Care Subsidy program run by the county Department of Social Services is open and accepting applications for low-income Rockland families.

“An increasing number of parents are calling in asking questions during these unprecedented times. Some families never wanted or needed formal childcare; however, they now have school age children in need of care and support while attending school remotely," said Vicki Caramante, Executive Director of Child Care Resources of Rockland.

Effective Aug. 19, school-aged children are now eligible to receive childcare during school hours if they are attending a childcare program and participate in remote learning.

Child Care Resources of Rockland connects program participants and parents with over 235 childcare programs within the County including in-home care, childcare centers and programs that provide before-or after-school care. Parents with questions about who will care for their children while they work should call them at 845-425-0009 ext. 0 or email info@rocklandchildcare.org.

Child Care Resources is familiar with the ages of the children accepted in each program in Rockland and the hours of operation. They also provide program staff training on what is necessary to operate a safe, quality program. In addition to providing a list of childcare options, Child Care Resources staff has the knowledge and expertise to talk families through the process of finding the right type of care for their child/ren. Referrals are free.

Families may be eligible for subsidies provided by the Department of Social Services if they are meeting income thresholds and the parent/caregiver is working a minimum of 20 hours per week earning at least minimum wage.

A family of four with a monthly income of $4,366 or less is eligible for a daycare subsidy. At minimum wage, which is $11.80 an hour in Rockland in 2020, a resident working a 40-hour week could earn $1,888 a month.

“We recognize the difficulties of working and managing childcare and this program goes a long way towards helping those most in need,” said County Executive Ed Day. “We are doing everything possible within County Government to support residents and businesses that have reopened in line with our ‘Safety First, People Always’ motto.”