Over the last decade, recognition of the need for high quality childcare has grown exponentially for all pre-school children, but particularly for low- and moderate-income children. The increase in the number of working parents, the changes in welfare legislation from a purely support to a welfare-to-work philosophy, as well as new Federal and State education requirements for students of all ages, have underscored the importance of safe, caring, affordable environments in which young children can receive quality care and preparation to begin school ready to learn. Increasing numbers of early care and education providers are requesting information and financing assistance to be able to participate in these expansion opportunities.
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