“Every family in Michigan deserves access to quality, affordable child care that meets their needs,” said Governor Whitmer (left). “Today, MiLEAP is helping nearly 4,000 child care providers who serve families across the state. Child care is critical to the wellbeing of our kids and the economic futures of working moms and dads. We have to keep lowering the cost of child care and expanding options for parents so they can go to work knowing that their kids are safe and cared for. Thanks to MiLEAP and our network of child care providers, we will continue facing this challenge head-on and making life more affordable for working families.” 

“We are pleased to be delivering these one-time operational grants to nearly 4,000 child care providers who provide high-quality care and early education to Michigan children and also empower families go to work and school each day,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “MiLEAP (left) is committed to delivering resources to child care providers as we work with our partners to continue building on efforts to expand access to affordable child care in our state.” 

“Child care providers in nearly every county in the state will receive this funding, which will help support staffing costs or cover operating costs,” said Emily Laidlaw, deputy director of Early Education at MiLEAP. “Quickly distributing these funds to child care providers is just one way we are working to help Michigan families access child care that meets their needs.” 

Eligible child care providers will automatically receive payments this week and payments average about $6,000. Payment amounts were determined by the age of the children, amount of time in child care, and the quality rating of the program, as required by Public Act 121 of 2024. Providers may find more information on the MiLEAP website.  

The Child Development and Care Scholarship program supports low- and no-cost child care for over 42,200 children in Michigan — up 18,500 children from January 2021. Families can see if they qualify and apply either online through MI Bridges or by submitting a paper application form to their local Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office. 

For families seeking child care options, visit the Great Start to Quality website. It’s also not too late for families to enroll 4-year-olds in FREE high-quality PreK this school year. Visit MIPreKforAll.org to find programs near you that meet your family’s unique needs. 

About MiLEAP:
Established by Governor Whitmer in 2023, MiLEAP’s mission is to improve outcomes from preschool to postsecondary so anyone can ‘make it in Michigan’ with a solid education and a path to a good-paying job. To learn more about MiLEAP, go to Michigan.gov/MiLEAP.