Up to $30,000 In Grant Money Available To Child Care Providers

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Up to $30,000 in grant funding is now being made available to child care and early childhood education providers throughout the territory. The grants are intended to aid individuals facing financial hardship due to COVID-19.

The grants are funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families Office of Child Care by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Child care providers are encouraged to use the money to strengthen and improve their programs.

“This is a terrific opportunity for child care providers and early education providers to access desperately needed funding to help mitigate and address the myriad of issues and financial challenges created by the ongoing pandemic," said Kimberley Causey-Gomez, commissioner of the Department of Human Services.

Applications will be accepted through the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services (OCCRS) starting Monday, June 7. Eligible providers may apply for grant funds from the following categories:

· OCCRS 1 – Health and Safety

· OCCRS 2 – Professional Cleaning Services

· OCCRS 3 – Personal Protective Equipment

· OCCRS 4 – Technology

· OCCRS 5 – Behavioral Health and Wellness

· OCCRS 6 – After school and camp supplies

· OCCRS 7 – Rental/Mortgage

· OCCRS 8 – Utility Expenses

Download the grant application from www.dhs.gov.vi on the Child care & Regulatory Servies page. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2021. Contact childcarevigrants@dhs.vi.gov with questions.

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