Tennessee Expands Affordable Childcare Options for Military Families Through New Partnership with Department of Defense

Nashville, TN – Great News for Military Families!

If you’re a military family living in Tennessee, we have some exciting news just for you! Following the celebrations of Veterans Day, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) has announced a fantastic new partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Together, they’re set to expand affordable and quality childcare options specifically designed for our active-duty military members.

Supporting Our Soldiers and Their Families

This remarkable collaboration involves not just the TDHS but also the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and the bustling Fort Campbell military base. It aims to help military-affiliated families across the entire state by creating better and more accessible childcare services. Now, eligible childcare providers can connect with the DoD’s Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood-PLUS (MCCYN-PLUS) program, which means more financial assistance for those in need.

What Does This Mean for Families?

So, what does this mean for you as a military family? Well, under this initiative, childcare providers in Tennessee who manage to earn a quality score between 80 and 100 through TDHS’s new Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) will be able to participate in this program. This ensures not only that providers meet state regulations for safety and care but also that they are actively committed to delivering high-quality childcare.

The QRIS helps agencies show off what makes them great by focusing on various indicators of quality care. All licensed childcare providers in the state are part of this system, and they receive a handy Child Care Score Card that showcases their quality levels to families looking for reliable childcare options.

Voices from State Leaders

Governor Bill Lee expressed his strong belief in the importance of affordable childcare, stating, “Access to affordable childcare is an important issue that we continue to prioritize to support families across the state.” He went on to say that through this partnership, Tennessee aims to give servicemembers “the support they deserve” while also ensuring that their children are safely cared for.

Clarence H. Carter, Commissioner of TDHS, highlighted that this partnership is a rewarding opportunity to support military families by granting them access to suitable childcare options right in their neighborhoods. “This is an exciting initiative to help those who serve our country,” he mentioned, “while building capacity for quality childcare statewide.”

Benefits of the MCCYN-PLUS Program

The MCCYN-PLUS program is full of benefits for military families. It provides greater access to top-notch early education experiences for children and helps families reduce their out-of-pocket expenses for childcare, which can sometimes be a burden. Additionally, eligible childcare providers will have opportunities to grow their businesses while supporting the very families that serve in the military.

One key aspect of this initiative is a significant increase in the child care provider rate cap, which is now a maximum of $1800 per month per child. This increase helps offset childcare costs not covered by parent fees, making it even easier for families to find quality care without breaking the bank.

How to Get Involved

If you’re a military family and want to know more about qualifying for this assistance, make sure to check out the militarychildcare.com website. On the other hand, childcare providers interested in being a part of this opportunity can find more information on becoming an approved MCCYN-PLUS provider in Tennessee.

Understanding TDHS

The Tennessee Department of Human Services has a mission that resonates with many – to strengthen Tennessee by enhancing the lives of its residents. They provide a wide range of services, including support for families and children through programs like Families First and Child Support. Their dedication to connect people with resources truly helps individuals and communities flourish.

This new partnership marks a significant step toward making life a little easier for our military families in Tennessee. It’s a comforting reminder that they are not alone and that support is available for those who protect our nation.