Specifications include, but are not limited to: Start Up programs are those in which there is currently no existing program and a brand new program will be started. Upon completion of the startup activities when a space is licensed and children are enrolled, the program must apply for and enroll in Quality First and has 3 years to achieve a Quality First Rating of 3 or higher. Expansion programs are those in which the early care and education program is currently participating in Quality First and has a rating of 2 stars or higher. Upon completion of expansion activities, the program has 3 years to achieve a Quality First Rating of 3 or higher. This grant opportunity will provide partial funding for multiple start up and/or expansion of child care programs that serve children birth through age 5. Funding from this grant opportunity can only be applied to providing child care for children ages birth through 5 and to programs serving CRIT families with child care. The child care program can be center based and/or regulated home based centers.
