1.9 million has been allocated through June 2001. Fifteen community forums were held with broad representation. Some large centers were in favor. Most, however, did not favor a program including Family Child Care providers. Provider hierarchy was a concern.
Providers feel that DSHS keeps asking for more and more.
What providers really want is a higher subsidy rate. The purpose was to increase access for DSHS subsidized children and increase quality. The program's future is uncertain and Denise would recommend implementation in a different form. There is discussion around increasing the subsidy rate. The program has been operating in 15 states since 1990.