State Awards $4.3 Million to Strengthen Family Childcare Programs

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $4.3 million in grants to 225 family childcare programs across Massachusetts through the second round of the Family Child Care Capital Grant Program. The program provides grants of up to $25,000 for facility improvements that enhance health and safety, improve accessibility, expand program capacity, and strengthen learning environments for children.

“Family childcare providers run small businesses that thousands of families depend on every day,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “We created this program to help providers invest in their businesses, serve more families, and continue providing high-quality care in communities across Massachusetts. It’s part of our work to make sure every family can find affordable, high-quality childcare where and when they need it.”

This second round builds on the program’s inaugural awards announced last year, when the administration provided $2.7 million to more than 150 family childcare providers. With these latest awards, the administration has invested approximately $7 million in nearly 400 family childcare programs through the state’s first dedicated capital grant program for licensed family childcare providers.

“Children learn best in environments where they feel safe, supported, and ready to explore,” Education Secretary Steve Zrike said. “These grants will help family childcare providers create high-quality learning environments that support children’s development from the very start. By investing in these spaces, we’re giving more young learners the strong foundation they need for success in school and beyond.”

Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw added that “family childcare providers are small business owners who play a vital role in supporting children, families, and Massachusetts’ economy. These grants will help providers improve their programs, increase capacity, and create safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate spaces where children can learn and grow.”

This grant program is administered through a partnership between the Department of Early Education and Care and MassDevelopment, the state’s development finance agency and land bank, to support the capital needs of family childcare programs.