The V.I. Dept. of Human Services has announced a significant increase in childcare subsidies, providing essential support for families participating in the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) program, also known as the "Block Grant."
This initiative, unveiled by the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services, aligns subsidy rates with the 100th percentile of the cost of care as determined by the territory's 2022 market rate survey and narrow cost analysis.
Effective immediately, the revised monthly childcare subsidies are as follows:
- Infants (Birth to 11 Months): $600
- Toddlers (1 Year to 2 Years): $675
- Preschoolers (3 Years to 4 Years): $725
- School Age (5 Years to 12 Years): $429
Eligibility for these subsidies is based on household income and family size, independent of provider rates. Families eligible for the program are required to continue paying any applicable monthly copay to maintain their eligibility.
Child Care Providers and families interested in the CCDF program are encouraged to visit the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services page on the VIDHS website for applications and further information. Offices are located at #129 Golden Rock St. Croix (340-772-7147) and the Knud Hansen Complex on St. Thomas (340-774-0930 ext. 4180).
DHS Commissioner Nominee Averil George highlighted the Department's commitment to supporting Virgin Islands families, stating, “This significant increase in childcare subsidies underscores the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services' commitment to ensuring access to high-quality childcare for all residents." By aligning financial assistance with the actual cost of care, the department said it aims to relieve the financial burden on families and promote the healthy development and early learning of children across the territory.
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