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Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES Press Contact: Ryan Nugent Director of Communications Phone: (340) 725-4924 ryan.nugent@dhs.vi.gov For Immediate Release: February 23, 2024 DHS Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services Unveils Significant Boost in Childcare Subsidies to Support Families U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services is pleased to introduce substantial increases in monthly childcare subsidies for participants in the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) program, also known as the "Block Grant." These subsidies now represent reimbursement at the 100th percentile of the cost of care, based upon the territory's 2022 market rate survey and narrow cost analysis. New Childcare Subsidies: • 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 It's important to note that a child's eligibility is based on household income and family size, not provider rates. Therefore, families determined eligible with a monthly copay must continue to pay the copay to remain eligible for the program. Child Care Providers and families interested in participating in the CCDF program may visit the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services page on the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services website for applications and information. Alternatively, they can visit the Child Care offices located at #129 Golden Rock St. Croix (340-772-7147) or Knud Hansen Complex on St. Thomas (340-774-0930 ext. 4180). In commenting on the subsidies, Commissioner Nominee Averil George emphasized, “This significant increase in childcare subsidies underscores the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services' commitment to supporting families and ensuring access to high-quality childcare for all residents. By providing financial assistance that aligns with the actual cost of care, the Department aims to alleviate the burden on families and promote the well-being of children across the territory.” The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services is dedicated to enhancing the quality, affordability, and accessibility of childcare services for families in the Virgin Islands. Through initiatives like the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) program, the office strives to support the needs of working families while fostering the healthy development and early learning of young children. The Department of Human Services (VIDHS) exists to provide social services to members in our community with diverse needs. In times of national uncertainty and hardship we act as a safety-net and exist to inspire hope and empower change through non-judgmental, quality delivery of needed services and resources. Please visit the Department of Human Services website, www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs). The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure, and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government, and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov. ### P R E S S R E L E A S E