Ccdd-2026 - child care and development block grant discretionary

The Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families awarded the Human Services RI Department $55,472,675 on October 1, 2025, under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Discretionary program (CFDA 93.575). The award funds child care subsidies and quality improvement activities in Rhode Island through September 30, 2028.

The award passes through to the Seiu Education & Support Fund, a nonprofit organization providing early childhood educator training and professional development through its National Early Educator Training Center. Sub-award amendments issued between February and April 2026 extended performance periods and increased funding while collective bargaining agreement negotiations were conducted. The amendments included a $203,036 increase to support extended operations through mid-year 2026 and additional funding provided through subsequent amendments extending performance through December 31, 2026.

The Child Care and Development Fund is the primary federal funding source enabling low-income families to access child care and improving child care quality for subsidized and unsubsidized children. The program operates as a block grant to states requiring submission of three-year CCDF plans detailing intended use of funds, sliding fee scales, and assurances of compliance with requirements under the CCDBG Act and 45 CFR Parts 98 and 99. The State of Rhode Island serves as the parent entity to the Human Services RI Department, which administers the award in Rhode Island.