He said DCCA will be facing major challenges with the child care program in the upcoming years. “A major challenge is that the [fund] in the next three years will be set or earmarked at the 2008 funding level, which is about $1.7 million per grantor funding level as provided by U.S. Congress,” he added.
In an email interview, he told reporters that there are currently 34 licensed child care centers in the CNMI.
There are 33 child care centers on Saipan, none on Tinian, and 1 in Rota.
The figures were based on May 2011 statistics from DCCA records.
He added that of the 34 licensed child care centers, 22 are qualified for the Child Care Development Fund.
The fund is a federal program that assists low-income families, families receiving temporary public assistance, and those making the switch from public assistance in obtaining child care so they can work, obtain training, or continue education.
The purpose of the fund is to increase the availability, affordability, and quality of child care.
In addition to disclosing the number of child care centers, Faisao said there are 10 relative care providers in the commonwealth.
Saipan has seven, Tinian handles two and Rota manages one.
He said about 480 eligible children are being served at qualified licensed child care centers and relative care providers.
