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New York State has granted a waiver to the Onondaga County Department of Social Services, allowing 95% of current childcare assistance cases to remain open. This decision comes after the county temporarily paused new applications due to a funding deficit. The waiver ensures continued support for families experiencing homelessness, low income, or having children with special needs.
The county's childcare assistance program, which has grown by 108% since 2021, faced financial strain when state funding was capped in February. As a result, the county had to implement a waitlist for the first time in its history. According to CNY Central, Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon stated that the waiver allows the county to continue providing essential childcare services to thousands of families.
The waiver specifically benefits families with incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level, ensuring they maintain access to affordable childcare. Of the 63 families on the waitlist, 60 will now be able to continue receiving assistance, as reported by Spectrum News.
While the waiver addresses immediate concerns, county officials are working with the state to secure long-term funding solutions to prevent future disruptions. Foster families remain unaffected by these changes and will continue to receive childcare support.