Southwest Montana News

Governor Greg Gianforte, in collaboration with Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Director Charlie Brereton, has announced an increase in support for families' child care costs through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship Program (BBCCS).

“Montana’s early childhood providers support hardworking families, strengthen our economy, and build a brighter future for our state,” stated Gov. Gianforte. He emphasized that this is a crucial investment to ensure both providers and families receive necessary services.

The BBCCS is available to qualified low-income families whose children are cared for by licensed or registered centers, group or family child care homes, or Family, Friend, and Neighbor providers. Starting March 1st, the subsidy rate will increase for all participating child care providers serving eligible clients.

Providers operating in high growth counties such as Flathead, Gallatin, Missoula, Ravalli, Yellowstone, and Lewis and Clark will receive an additional 15 percent premium on top of the increased rate. This aims to help cover costs associated with providing care while stabilizing the workforce and improving access for families.

Director Brereton noted the importance of ensuring access to high-quality child care as a component of family prosperity. “While all participating child care providers and families across Montana will benefit from our rate increases," he said, "those living in high growth areas will receive an additional boost to ensure that child care provider doors stay open and access to services increases."

This rate adjustment follows House Bill 648 signed into law by Gov. Gianforte in 2023 to expand funding for the scholarship program. Additionally, last year saw a $24 million investment announced by the governor and DPHHS aimed at enhancing Montana's early childhood system.