The Child Care and Development Block Grant: Background and Funding

This report provides background and funding information on the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which is the primary source of Federal funding dedicated solely for child care subsidies for low-income working and welfare families. Federal funding levels for child care assistance continue to be a source of debate, in the context of increased work requirements for single welfare mothers, those leaving welfare for work, and low-income working families in general. The quality of available child care services and the relationship of child care programs to the broader world of early childhood education and care remain active concerns of Congress.