By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – The Erie County Department of Social Services announced eligibility levels for the low income subsidy program will be increased from 125% to 175% of the Federal Poverty Level, effective August 23.
Earlier this year, the County came under fire for reducing income guidelines and freezing intake for the program, citing cuts in funding. 674 families lost their subsidies.
In June, a one-time allocation of stimulus dollars allowed the County to re-open in-take for the Child Care Subsidy program. And earlier this month, the state increased child care subsidy allocations by $6 million over the 2009-2010 state fiscal year.
Erie County Social Services Commissioner Carol Dankert said, "While our allocation was delayed by the elongated state budget process, the increase in funding for this critical service allows us to support families who are working toward independence. Providing child care subsidies to the working poor is an important component of helping them become more self-sufficient."
Applicants are encouraged to visit the County's DSS website where eligibility standards and application requirements are outlined.
A family of three could earn up to $3,051.66 per month in order to qualify for these services.