Temporary Child Care Assistance for Certain Health Care Workers
Governor Gianforte and the Health Advisory Commission approved $5.5 Million in one-time only child care assistance for certain healthcare employees through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Applications will be accepted through September 30, 2023. Funding is limited and applications are processed on a first come first serve basis, with prioritization for employees who work in facilities reliant on Medicaid funding.
Am I an eligible healthcare worker?
- At least one parent in the household must provide direct care services to patients or clients in one of the following health care sector categories:
- Health care,
- Behavioral health,
- Disability services, or
- Long-term care settings to include home and community-based services, assisted living, skilled nursing, or home health.
What are other requirements for this program?
- Family must live in Montana.
- Family income at or below 250% Federal Poverty Level (FPL) receive priority funding,
- Children must be a U.S. citizen or qualified alien.
- Children must be under 12 years old to be eligible for paid child care.
- Parents with children under 18 must comply with child support if there is an absent parent.
- Child care must be provided by a child care provider licensed/registered by the State of Montana.
What are the benefits of this program?
- A family will only have up to $100 monthly copayment.
- A family is eligible for 12 months.
- A child care provider will be paid the full authorized amount, regardless of attendance. This ensures a child will have a child care slot with the provider.
For more information:
- Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies are taking applications beginning November 19, 2021.