FundKidsFirstRally_lowres-79Children in Kentucky saw an amazing win this past April when Governor Beshear and state legislators restored funding for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in the 2015-2016 state budget which begins on July 1. Since the legislative session ended, parents, providers and advocates have anxiously awaited the details of how the restored funding will roll out. Last Friday we got those details. Governor Beshear announced he will increase the eligibility for child care assistance for Fiscal Year 2015 to 140 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and open up the program on August 4, 2014. The state will then raise eligibility to 150 percent of FPL beginning July 1, 2015.

Governor Beshear’s announcement means parents can keep their jobs and ensure quality care for their children. That means child care centers – such a vital element of the small business community across the Commonwealth – can sustain viable operations.  That means the power of quality early childhood experiences in health outcomes and preparedness for school will deepen.

Governor Beshear, Senator Stivers, Speaker Stumbo and many other state leaders played vital roles in making CCAP restoration a 2014 Frankfort priority and last Friday, the Governor turned a commitment into a reality for thousands of Kentucky families.

We thank the Governor today for again showing his deep commitment to prioritizing Kentucky kids and families. Have you thanked the Governor yet? Take a moment to send him an e-mail and let him know how much you appreciate him by clicking here.