Ccdd-2026 - child care and development block grant discretionary

The Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families awarded the Department of Early Learning and Care $231,953,535 on October 1, 2025, under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Discretionary program (CFDA 93.575).

Oregon's lead agency for early childhood education and care, DELC administers child care subsidies for low-income families through vouchers or certificates, implements quality improvement initiatives, develops the child care workforce, modernizes data systems and infrastructure, and strengthens program and fiscal integrity. The award supports enhanced parent choice and access to early care and education options across Oregon.

The funding obligation spans the period October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028, with performance in Oregon. The Child Care and Development Fund consists of both discretionary and mandatory/matching components and serves as the primary federal funding source to help low-income families access child care while improving quality for all children. DELC must submit a three-year CCDF plan to the Administration for Children and Families, incorporating certifications and assurances of compliance with the CCDBG Act, designated lead agency status, policies and procedures, intended use of block grant funds, payment rate certifications, and a sliding fee scale. The lead agency must hold at least one public hearing no earlier than nine months before the plan becomes effective, following at least 20 days of statewide public notice.