Get ready – the next update/application period is next week: March 20-24, 2023. Organize your records now so you are ready for update/application week. You must review and update your application every month.

Apply for Payment Program C – Promoting Inclusive Spaces in March Only

The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is launching a one-time payment – Child Care Counts: Stabilization Payment Program C to support Wisconsin’s early care and education community in promoting inclusive spaces in high-quality child care centers.

Overview of Payment Program C – Promoting Inclusive Spaces

• Providers do not need to have children with disabilities currently enrolled to apply for Payment Program C.
• This is a one-time payment and will only be available during the March 2023 Application (3/20–3/24/23).
• Providers need to complete a separate Program C application during the March Application/Update Week. This application will be very similar to programs A and B.

Funding for Program C is designed to accommodate the needs of children with disabilities and/or developmental delays to allow all children to fully participate in the child care program.

• Visit the Payment Program C section of the Child Care Counts webpage for more information, Frequently Asked Questions, and resources.
• Visual examples of facility updates and purchased materials are available on the DCF website. These examples were also shared at the January 17, 2023, Tuesday Talks webinar, and you can watch the recording of that event.
• Learn more about Program C from the February 21 Tuesday Talks recording.

Spending Deadline Reminder

All Stabilization Payment Program funds must be spent within 120 days from the date of the payment letter. See the Use of Funds section of the Frequently Asked Questions for more information. October 2022 funds must be spent by March 18, 2023.

February Payment Information

Applications submitted by the February 24 deadline:

• Providers will be notified of their eligibility for funds by March 17, via a payment letter uploaded to the Child Care Provider Portal.

Applications submitted before the March 10 extended deadline:

• Late-submitted applications will be reviewed on a delayed schedule, and approved applications will receive payment on April 12.

If you have questions or need assistance, please email DCFDECECOVID19CCPayments@wisconsin.gov or call and speak with a Support Center Specialist at 608-535-3650.