Montana Parents Left Scrambling: What You Need to Know

BUTTE, MT - We'll give it to you straight: it's not looking good for a lot of Montana parents right now.

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A recent decision by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to transfer childcare support contracts to a New York-based for-profit company has sent shockwaves through the state.

As reported by the Montana Standard, nonprofit organizations, which for years have helped families navigate childcare resources, are facing potential layoffs or closure, leaving Montana parents wondering: "What does this mean for me and my child?"

For families who have relied on local ChildCare Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies, this news raises critical concerns. Where will we turn now for help? What options remain? Are these services disappearing for good?

Let's take a closer look at what’s happening and how it will affect parents across the state.

So, What Is Happening?

Historically, Montana's childcare services have been supported by nonprofit CCR&Rs spread across seven regions. These organizations have offered life-changing services such as helping parents find quality daycare providers, guiding them through the complicated Best Beginnings scholarship application, and providing emotional and logistical support to daycare providers—just to name a few.

However, a recent competitive bidding process has shifted a lot of this funding to Shine Early Learning, a for-profit firm based in New York. As a result, several local CCR&R organizations, including Butte 4Cs and ChildCare Connections in Bozeman, will lose funding, which will place many services at risk.

What If I Rely on These Programs?

If you’re a parent who’s relied on CCR&R services, the impending cuts will undoubtedly be a shock. Losing access to this community-based support could feel overwhelming, especially for low-income families already struggling with the complexities of childcare.

So, what can you do? For now, some of these organizations, like Missoula's ChildCare Resources, will still be available to help with Best Beginnings applications. However, the support you receive may be limited due to staffing cuts and funding constraints. It's crucial to reach out to your local CCR&R and confirm what services they will still offer.

When Will These Changes Take Effect?

The current contracts with the CCR&R agencies are set to expire at the end of September, meaning many services could disappear as soon as October 1st. This deadline is fast approaching, leaving many nonprofits, parents, and childcare providers scrambling for solutions.

As for the new contracts with Shine Early Learning, DPHHS has implemented a "pay-for-performance" model. This means Shine will be evaluated on metrics such as retaining childcare businesses, growing quality programs, and expanding childcare slots. Whether this will translate into practical help for Montana families remains to be seen.

What If I Am a Daycare Provider?

The loss of community-based CCR&R services is also a major blow to childcare providers, who rely on these agencies for licensing help, curriculum materials, and emotional support.

Providers like Cicely Podgorski in Butte have voiced concerns over the loss of personal relationships and hands-on assistance that nonprofits like Butte 4Cs have provided for years. Without this support, many providers fear they will struggle to maintain the same level of quality and care in their facilities.

For providers, it's important to stay informed about any updates from DPHHS or Shine Early Learning. If you rely on CCR&R services for licensure or training, you may need to explore alternative resources soon.

What’s Next for Montana Families?

For parents in Montana, the loss of local childcare navigators is a cause for alarm. These nonprofits have served as a lifeline for families and providers alike, and their potential closure or downsizing marks a significant shift in how childcare resources are distributed in the state.

If you are a parent relying on these programs, now is the time to contact your local CCR&R to learn what services will still be available. Stay informed on updates from Shine Early Learning and DPHHS, and consider reaching out to your local lawmakers to express concerns over the potential loss of vital support.

The coming months will be a period of adjustment, and while the state aims to expand access to childcare, families are left wondering whether that expansion will truly meet their needs—or leave them scrambling for answers in the meantime.