Page 19
Page 19 Center-based providers were asked whether they participated in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). As shown in Figure 4, almost 40% of providers said they participated in the program. The qualitative data from the final, open-ended question of the interviews allowed the research team to examine themes around center-based child care directors’ answers to the following question: “Is there any other information you would like to share with us at this time?” These themes appear below. Financial Support. Seventy-one of the 82 providers who provided additional feedback reported needing additional funding to maintain their programs. Of these, 23 providers specifically mentioned needing additional funding to hire additional staff and/or to provide additional compensation for their staff. Four specifically mentioned wanting to provide benefits for their staff. Six providers mentioned issues with families being able to afford tuition rates, subsidy co- pays, enrollment fees, supply fees, or “basic needs for their children.” Two of these providers stated that it should be easier for parents to access child care subsidies. Six providers stated that they need additional funding to provide adequate supports for children with special needs, with four stating they specifically need funds to hire additional staff to adequately support their students with special needs. 39.4% 60.6% Figure 4. Do you participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program? Yes No Additional Information from Center-based Providers Center-based CACFP Participation