PHOENIX — Governor Katie Hobbs announced this week that 900 more Arizona children will receive access to child care assistance, following the rollout of her Arizona Promise Budget. The expansion is part of a broader $125.9 million investment in child care services — the largest allocation of general funds for child care in the state since the Great Recession.
The funding combines both state and federal dollars and aims to significantly reduce Arizona’s child care waitlist, allowing more working families to enroll their children in early learning programs.
“Affordable child care means freedom for families — the freedom to work, to build a future, and to give their children a strong start,” said Governor Hobbs. “I’ve heard from parents across Arizona who have had to step away from their careers because they couldn’t afford child care. This budget directly answers those concerns.”
Families of the newly enrolled children have been notified by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) and must confirm eligibility and enrollment by July 25. The Child Care Assistance Program helps cover the cost of care for working parents or those attending school.
State officials and early childhood advocates applauded the investment.
“This funding will allow parents to rejoin the workforce or pursue an education, knowing their children are in safe, supportive environments,” said DES Director Michael Wisehart. “We’re proud to help families thrive.”
Leaders from organizations such as Children’s Action Alliance, Southwest Human Development, and the Arizona Early Childhood Alliance praised the move as a significant and long-needed boost for early childhood education in Arizona.
“This is more than just funding,” said Ginger Ward, CEO of Southwest Human Development. “It’s a recognition that child care is essential infrastructure for families and the economy.”
Families are being released from the waitlist according to income level, starting with those at or below the federal poverty line and moving up in ten percent increments.
More information about the Child Care Assistance Program and enrollment resources is available on the DES website.
