Date: 13 Feb 2024
New Hampshire’s recent expansion of the Child Care Scholarship program is set to offer significant financial relief to families, potentially saving them thousands annually and encouraging workforce participation.
The New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute reports a critical move to address child care affordability through the 2024-2025 state budget, which broadens income eligibility for the NH Child Care Scholarship. This initiative aims to reduce the economic burden on families and stimulate labor force engagement by making child care more accessible.
- Expansion of NH Child Care Scholarship eligibility.
- Reduction in family cost share for child care services.
- Potential significant annual savings for eligible families.
The program now includes families earning up to 85% of the State Median Income, with scaled cost sharing. This adjustment is anticipated to ease the financial strain of child care costs, highlighted by the example of families earning $80,000 annually now facing reduced weekly contributions.
This policy change underscores New Hampshire’s commitment to supporting families and children by making quality child care more affordable, fostering a stronger, more inclusive economy.
Call to Action: Families are encouraged to explore eligibility and apply through the NHEasy website to take advantage of the scholarship benefits.