In August 2023, through the FY2024 state budget, the Rhode Island General Assembly allocated $4 million to expand the existing Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) with a Child Care Staff Pilot. For educators and staff who work at licensed child care sites, the pilot program increased income eligibility for CCAP to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, up from 200%.
Educators who are employed at a licensed Department of Human Services early childhood program for at least 20 hours a week are eligible to apply. There are no co-pays or family share costs.
The pilot program was initially funded through July 2024. The General Assembly added the child care subsidy for early educators to its FY2025 budget, extending eligibility for an additional year and moving the program out of the “pilot” category. In spring 2025, legislators extended the program for another three years, through July 2028.
Sources:
State of Rhode Island Department of Human Services. (n.d.). CCAP for Child Care Staff Pilot.
State of Rhode Island Department of Human Services. (n.d.). What is the CCAP for Child Care Pilot?
San Miguel, M. (2025, March 2). Rhode Island Child Care Program Aims to Reduce Burdensome Cost. Ocean State Media.
State of Rhode Island General Assembly. (2023, August 24). Speaker Shekarchi, President Ruggerio, Governor McKee, DHS announce CCAP for Child Care Staff Pilot.
The Economic Progress Institute. (2025, August 19). Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).
Povich, E. (2024, June 17). For child care workers, state aid for their own kids’ care is ‘life-changing’. Stateline.
Connections to Key Early Learning Study at Harvard (ELS@H) Findings:
The early education workforce is the foundation upon which all daily work and any expansion and quality improvement efforts rest. Research suggests that states and cities should invest in the workforce across all early education setting types, focusing on enhancing educators’ professional learning, compensation, and workplace conditions.
Findings from the Early Learning Study at Harvard (ELS@H) show:
- Early educators play a critical role in supporting the well-being of young children and families across setting types.
- Yet their pay, benefits, and other professional supports are often inadequate in light of the job demands and their cost of living.