DSS announces latest grant for child care providers

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The State Department of Social Services says child care provides in South Carolina are eligible for a one-time expansion or operations grant.

Officials say the grant was made possible through the Federal American Rescue Plan Act.

The grant amount range from 27 thousand dollars to 90 thousand dollars depending on the size of the facility.

The grant is primarily designed to support increased child enrollment, staff and educator retention, and child care center operating expenses, said DSS.

“Our goal is to support child care providers in their efforts to expand and enhance the quality of care for children across our state. This grant is just another example of significant steps DSS has made over the last four years towards ensuring more families have access to affordable, high-quality child care,” said DSS State Director Michael Leach.

Funds from the Expansion/Operating grant may be used to retain current staff through salary increases or retention bonuses.

Other allowable expenses for the grant include:

•  paying facility expenses, including rent/mortgage payments, utility bills, and personnel costs
• classroom materials
• playground repairs or upgrades
• technology equipment and services
• goods and services
• cleaning or sanitation costs

The deadline to apply for the grant is September 9, 2024.

Providers can apply for the grant here. For questions about the grant, providers can email DECEGrants@dss.sc.gov or call 1-800-476-0199.