The state has announced that $ 210 million of federal COVID aid will be used to invest in early childhood and childcare programs across the state to help families and businesses affected by the pandemic.

Governor Ned Lamont announced what he called “historic” plans on Friday during a visit from Vice President Kamala Harris, who came to Connecticut to discuss a federal focus on helping children and families.

The money will come from a combination of funds from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), which was passed in late 2020, and the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which was approved earlier this year.

“If we are to grow our economy and help families get back to work, we need to support childcare providers. This is a significant investment in these services at a time when this support is so urgently needed, “Governor Ned Lamont said in a statement.” In particular, I would like to thank the Connecticut Congressional Delegation for advocating childcare funding in federal law and ensuring these resources were quickly delivered to the state. “

According to the governor’s office, the plan will include a two-year investment of $ 50 million in expanding access to childcare services through the Connecticut Care 4 Kids programs for parents enrolled in college or certain workforce training programs. The aim is to support parents who lost their jobs during the pandemic and need childcare while they train for something new.

Another $ 120 million will be used to support childcare providers by offering funding to childcare companies affected by the restrictions and changes during the pandemic. Grants are available for all licensed daycare, group nurseries, family nurseries, and royalty-free programs that accept Care 4 Kids childcare allowances.

Approximately $ 26 million will also be used to invest in the quality of childcare programs, with an emphasis on programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the National Association for Family Childcare. Another $ 6 million is set to help other programs earn this accreditation.

In addition to the Early Childhood Office, the state works with childcare programs and workers through the Governor’s Labor Council and the Governor’s Council for Women and Girls. These groups also want to examine the cost of quality childcare and how they can work with the private sector to get more opportunities.

“This is a historic day for Connecticut children and families,” Connecticut commissioner Beth Bye said in a statement. “Lawyers and families have been calling for more accessible childcare for decades. Grants maintain childcare infrastructure, childcare grants support parents who sign up for workforce education, and Connecticut’s Childcare Grant Program makes significant investments in quality childcare programs. “

Announcement is the first step. The governor’s office will work with the Connecticut General Assembly to finalize the plans.

More information on the governor’s announcement can be found here.