DHS Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services Unveils Significant Boost in Childcare Subsidies

Virgin Islands Department of Human Services

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, which is also known as the “Block Grant.”

These subsidies now represent reimbursement at the 100th percentile of the cost of care, based on 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

t’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.

Childcare providers and families interested in participating in the Child Care Development Fund program may visit the Office of Child Care and Regulatory Services page on the Human Services website for applications and information. Alternatively, they can visit the Child Care offices located at 129 Golden Rock St. Croix (772-7147) or Knud Hansen Complex on St. Thomas (774-0930 ext. 4180).

In commenting on the subsidies, Commissioner Nominee Averil George said, “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 Service 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 program, the office strives to support the needs of working families while fostering the healthy development and early learning of young children.

For more information, visit the Department of Human Services website at www.dhs.gov.vi or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/usvidhs.