Child care providers in New York state can apply for $30 million in federal grant funding to bolster and expand programs where there are not enough open slots, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Wednesday. 

The money, made available through federal pademic relief sent to states, is meant to address so-called "deserts" of child care where services are lacking. New York is spending $100 million in order to expand child care offerings. 

"As a young mom, I had to leave my job due to lack of access to child care, so I know how important this lifeline is for working parents," Hochul said. "This funding will help expand the availability of quality child care for New Yorkers and remove child care deserts across New York State. With our historic $7 billion investment in child care as part of the State Budget, we will continue to provide parents with this much-needed support as part of our economic recovery." 

The pandemic and the workplace disruptions caused by the crisis has heightened policy questions surrounding child care. Many parents struggled finding adequate care programs even prior to the pandemic, and a worker shortage has added to frustrations. 

Officials want to expand child care in existing day care centers and school-age child programs through funding for additional slots that are designated for infants and toddlers or children with special needs. 

There is also a push to expand specific child care programs for small centers, family child care programs and group family child care programs were enrollment is under capacity. 

The money can be used for employee payroll or benefits, as well as supporting staff for COVID vaccine expenses, rent, mortgage or utility payments or helping pay for training and professional development. 

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 24.