County scales back state program

BUFFALO, N.Y. (RELEASE) - Erie County Social Services Commissioner Carol Dankert has announced that Erie County must immediately scale back a state program aimed at providing child care subsidy to low income families because New York State has not provided the necessary funding.

Erie County receives a Child Care Block Grant from New York State to offset the cost of day care services for children of TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) recipients and the working poor. Running at current levels, the program is costing local taxpayers $10 million more than the State is providing Erie County. In order to minimize Erie County losses, Commissioner Dankert has ordered her staff to immediately reduce eligibility from 200% to 125% of Poverty. Unfortunately, this reduction in eligibility will translate into the elimination of current subsidies to more than 1,500 local children, 42% of current recipients. A Public Assistance recipient who is working or engaged in work related activities will not be impacted, however, the working poor recipient most likely will be.

“Providing the working poor with day care subsides for their children is a critical part of helping people transition from welfare to work,” said Dankert. “Sadly, our funding has declined by over $13 million in the last five years. The State’s financial problems are cascading down on local governments tasked with providing these services and our clients who depend on them. This program is an important one, but Erie County cannot afford to subsidize a funding deficit of over $10 million.”

Dankert and her staff alerted the New York State Office of Children and Family Services about this funding shortage mid 2009 and requested additional funding. As of year’s end, no relief has been provided. Dankert alerted the State of her decision to reduce eligibility and to date there has been no response.

Those impacted by this funding shortage should contact 716 858-3995 or 716 858-8953 for more information.