COVID-19 Information

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You are on this page: COVID-19 Information

Keep up to date on
Current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) News
COVID-19 Guidance

As you are aware, the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV, aka COVID-19) has, since first appearing in China in 2019, spread throughout the world, including in every state in the U.S. This virus can lead to fever, cough and trouble breathing as well as possible death. Numerous vaccines designed to inoculate against the virus have been developed and are currently being administered. New York State is actively encouraging residents to vaccinate themselves and family members, take continued precautions, and remain informed on any developing news.

Child Care Providers

Child Care Subsidy Information

Child Care Subsidy Information in Regard to COVID-19

Effective immediately, local social services districts can expand the child care services they provide to families affected by the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. Districts may select from the following options:

  • extend the eligibility period,
  • expand the definition of a child needing protective services,
  • expand the number of allowable absences,
  • expand the number of program closures,
  • extend eligibility up to 85% of the state median income level,
  • waive family shares, and
  • make other requests related to eligibility and/or administration of the child care subsidy program.

To obtain a current waiver request form, local social services districts should contact the OCFS Subsidy Unit at ocfs.sm.districtsupport.subsidy@ocfs.ny.gov.

Dear Provider Letters

Dear Provider Letters Regarding COVID-19

Guidance Documents

NYS OCFS & DOH Joint Statement on Revised Mask Guidance for Child Care Programs

May 25, 2021

We thank the providers who have worked so hard since the start of the pandemic to remain open to serve the families of those who could not stay home and we recognize their valiant efforts in serving working families who need quality, reliable and safe child care.

New CDC Supplemental Guidance on Child Care

July 23, 2020

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has posted a Supplemental Guide for Child Care. Written in collaboration with the Offices of Child Care and Head Start for a variety of child care settings, this resource provides guidance specific to child care on issues such as:

  • Social distancing;
  • Child pick up and drop off procedures;
  • Cleaning and disinfecting of toys and bedding;
  • Safely caring for infants and toddlers; and
  • Food preparation and meal service

In addition, the Guidance document provides numerous links to resources that provide even greater detail, including information regarding children’s risks concerning the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Updated Interim Testing Guidance: Protocol for COVID-19 testing with prioritization by job title/role

April 26, 2020

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) continues to monitor the situation and work to expand COVID-19 diagnostic and serologic testing for New Yorkers. The attached document broadens the circumstances in which essential workers may request a COVID test by contacting the state’s COVID 19 testing hotline.

Webinars

New Webinar Video Available

Child Care Providers and Federal Assistance: Small Business Administration Loans and Loan Forgiveness

Tom Copeland’s Small Business Administration Opportunities and Economic Relief for Child Care Providers webinar recorded on April 9, 2020 is available for viewing.

Go to the video of the webinar.

Parents

National Diaper Bank for Parents to Access Diapers During this Challenging Time

If you or someone you know needs diapers, there may be assistance in your community.

To find out if an agency in your area provides diaper assistance to families in need, please call 2-1-1 on your phone or search online at 2-1-1.org. Specialist are available 24/7 to help identify local resources that may be able to help provide diapers and other basic necessities.

For more information wisit the National Diaper Bank.

Teachers

Teacher Toolkit Posters

Vaccination Stickers

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