Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Update September 25, 2026

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Childcare expenditures have continued to rise due to statewide policy changes designed to expand access and stability for families and providers. While these changes have benefited many families, they have also created demand that exceeds the funding allocated to our district through the New York State Child Care Block Grant (NYSCCBG). Chemung County has been notified of additional funding, including the allocation for FFY 2027: however, like many counties, these funds remain insufficient to meet the needs of all eligible families. As a result, some CCAP applications may be denied due to insufficient funding based on the demand and current projections.

 

Families receiving Temporary Assistance will continue to be served under childcare guarantee provisions. In addition, Chemung County has received approval of a waiver of 18 NYCRR 415.2(d)(1)(i), allowing the district to continue opening cases at recertification for families who fall within one or more of the following federal priority populations, provided funding is available:

 

Families experiencing homelessness

Families with income under 300% of the State Income Standard (SIS)

Families with children who have special needs

 

Effective June 24, 2026, families who are recertifying and meet one or more of these priority criteria may remain open, contingent upon funding availability.

 

Chemung County continues to have a pending waiver request to amend the definition of “very low income” to 200% of the State Income Standard for the purpose of prioritizing non-guaranteed applicants and recertifications. This request is intended to allow the district to continue supporting families with the greatest need and the fewest resources.

 

Chemung County Department of Social Services remains committed to supporting families during this transition and will continue to review funding on an ongoing basis. As funding becomes available, eligible cases will be opened. Effective October 1, 2026, Chemung County will establish a waitlist during times when available funding is not sufficient to meet the needs of new applicants. We appreciate the continued patience and partnership of our families, providers, and community, and we will continue monitoring NYSCCBG funding and advocating for the resources needed to support childcare access.

 

For questions related to payments for authorized cases or family eligibility, please contact the Chemung County Child Care Council at 607-734-3941.