DHS increases child care subsidy rates

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) has approved an increase to child care subsidy rates, effective Nov. 1.  DHS Child Care Services conducted a market rate survey to determine the private payment market rates for child care, and determined an increase was necessary.

“The last rate increase was in January, 2009,” said Joni Riley, DHS programs administrator.  “These new increases will support the access and choice of child care for families meeting eligibility criteria, and promote high-quality care.”

The increases will be $1 per day for a full day at all state “Three Star” facilities.  “Standard Area Two Star” facilities will receive a $1.50 increase per day for a full day, and “Enhanced Area Two Star” facilities will see an increase of $1 per day for a full day.

The rate increase will cost $5,266,460 and is funded with existing federal dollars allocated to child care subsidy.

###