Accomack Supervisors approve grant program to expand childcare access

The Accomack County Board of Supervisors has officially approved a new grant program aimed at expanding childcare access across the county.

At their recent meeting, the Board gave the green light to the Child Day Center Incentive Grant Program — a joint initiative between the County and the Economic Development Authority, or EDA. The program will offer financial incentives to licensed childcare providers who create at least 15 new slots for children under the age of 13.

Under the plan, the EDA will distribute the grants while the County handles program management and administration.

To qualify, centers must commit to maintaining the new slots for at least two years, maintain or obtain a state childcare license, and comply with all relevant nondiscrimination policies.

Applications will be scored based on location, provider experience, licensing ability, and proposed use of funds.

The Board also voted to increase the program’s funding from $150,000 to $225,000, citing higher childcare delivery costs and feedback from a recent roundtable with providers.

The EDA is expected to give final approval of the program at its upcoming meeting on July 14.