Alabama DHR announces final round of childcare stability grants

Special to the Enquirer

MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) announces the final round of grants supporting childcare providers through a temporary federal grant program.

DHR began accepting applications for Child Care Stability grants on Monday, meant to reinforce the childcare industry in Alabama. The final day to apply is Aug. 12. Award amounts will be determined based on the total number of children served by the facility or home, the number of qualifying applicants, and the availability of funds. DHR wants to ensure all the remaining grant funds provided through the American Rescue Plan Act are utilized before September 30, 2024.

“These grants have helped increase access to childcare for many Alabama families and have improved opportunities for Alabama’s childcare providers. We know that high-quality and accessible childcare is an integral foundation block of Alabama’s workforce system,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “It is vital that we find unique and novel ways to support and grow the list of high-quality caregivers and providers across our state if we are to build and maintain a strong workforce throughout Alabama.” Grant funds are used for necessary expenditures such as employee pay, facility maintenance, purchases of classroom materials, cleaning supplies and meals. Funds can also be used to offer tuition relief to families.

To qualify, providers must be licensed and operating in good standing with DHR at the time they apply and receive a grant. They must also remain in operation for at least one year after a grant is awarded.

Applications and other important information will be available at dhr.alabama.gov/child-care.