Oregon Approves $21 Million for Child Care but Demand Tops $255 Million Across the State

Despite an allocation of nearly $21 million in grants for 61 childcare infrastructure projects across 28 Oregon counties, the amount falls woefully short of the $255 million requested by 503 applicants.

Governor Says the Latest Allocation of Funds Will Ease One of the Biggest Financial Burdens Facing Oregon Families

In a press release yesterday, Governor Tina Kotek states that the 61 projects will nevertheless expand childcare capacity and address one of the biggest cost burdens facing working families in the state.

The $20,950,558 was allocated via the Child Care Infrastructure Fund (CCIF), which was created in 2024 when the Oregon legislature approved $50 million in lottery bonds, at the request of Governor Kotek.

The implementation of the CCIF program is facilitated by Business Oregon, which collaborates with state agencies, private organizations, and the Department of Early Learning and Care.

The huge demand for childcare investments across the state was demonstrated when Business Oregon received requests from 503 applicants for $255 million.

The new allocation of funds will be used for construction, repairs, renovations, modernizations, retrofits, and property acquisition.

The Governor Says Affordable Childcare Allows Families to Build Stability

“Access to affordable childcare is essential for working families and for Oregon’s economy,” Governor Kotek said. “When parents can count on safe, reliable care, they can show up to work and build stability for their families. These investments will expand child care options across the state and help more communities meet the needs of families.”

Her sentiments are shared by Laura Paz Whitmore, director of Casita Azul Education Collection, a recipient of the latest funding.

“Every dollar of this award will be felt in classrooms, in the children we teach, and in the families who trust us with what matters most to them.”

Childcare is often the largest monthly financial expense for many Oregon families. Increasing the number of available childcare slots is an effective way to stabilize prices and improve access for families.

Oregon Lacks Sufficient Childcare Facilities for Children Under the Age of Five

However, despite years of public investment, the shortage of childcare facilities throughout the state remains severe.

Oregon sorely lacks sufficient childcare facilities for children under the age of five, making it extremely difficult for lower-income families who need two incomes to make ends meet.

While all but two counties remain deserts for infant and toddler care, 25% of counties are childcare deserts, with only one in three children under the age of five having access to regulated childcare.

Here is where the shortage still bites hardest: