Arkansas' Changes to Child Care Grant Program Give More Families Access to High-Quality Child Care Programs

LITTLE ROCK - In an effort to increase families' access to high-quality early learning experiences under the LEARNS Act, the Arkansas Department of Education is pleased to announce changes to the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) subsidy program.
The CCDF program is the largest federal funding source for states to assist low-income families with child care, with the department awarding more than $125 million to needy families in 2023. The supports from the program allow families to work, attend school, or participate in job training.
"Research shows that access to high-quality child care increases a child's readiness for school and success later in life," ADE Secretary Jacob Oliva said. "Through LEARNS, the focus on improving access has become a priority. These changes to the CCDF grant program serve as another opportunity for more Arkansas families to achieve the necessary early learning supports for their children while they work to support their families."