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.”
The changes below, which became effective on July 1, are the result of efforts by the State Board of Education Committee on Early Learning and local early childhood lead organizations and their continued engagement with stakeholders.
Required work hours: Families must now show they completed 20 hours of work each week, a reduction from 30 hours. This change expands access to high-quality early childhood opportunities, making it easier for working families to balance work and home life.
Household income determination: Instead of updating the eligibility-based state median income every two years, ADE will update this criteria every year. This ensures eligibility determinations are more accurate.
Family Co-Payment: Arkansas now waives family co-payments for families at or below 75 percent of the state’s median income. This is a change from 40 percent, so more families can afford high-quality early childhood opportunities for their children.
Removal of lifetime limit: The previous 60-month limit to receive benefits has been removed, allowing eligible families to now qualify indefinitely.
Unified application: Families can now use one application for both Arkansas Better Chance and CCDF programs.
