Blooming Through Challenges: Your Support Is Making a Difference. But the Work Isn’t Over.
We’re nearly halfway through our Bloom Together campaign, and we want to share a quick but important update.
Last month, we shared the stark reality of looming budget cuts that were threatening access, affordability, and quality in early learning.
This past weekend, the state legislative session ended, and the budget proposed by the House and Senate is waiting to be signed by the Governor, and we’re sharing the results. Thanks to strong advocacy by our early learning community, donations from supporters like you, and the collective action of partners across Washington, we secured several important wins that will protect and expand opportunities for children, families, and child care providers.
At the same time, some devastating cuts were made that will impact many families and children across the state over the next two years. Here’s a summary of these changes and why your continued support through the Bloom Together campaign matters more than ever.
Wins We’re Celebrating:
Working Connections Child Care Subsidy Co-Pays Stayed Per Household
Families receiving this subsidy will see increased child care co-pays starting July of 2027 Although this is not what we want for families, BrightSpark Advocates did their part and spoke up for King & Pierce Counties to ensure the co-pay structure remained per household, NOT per child, preventing an even greater financial burden for Washington families.
85th Percentile Rate Maintained
We successfully defended a key equity standard: child care subsidy base rates will remain at the 85th percentile of the market, ensuring costs reflect the most up-to-date market rate survey. Effective July 1, 2025, this ensures providers are paid fairly, especially those serving families with the least access.
Early Learning Facilities (ELF) Grant Expanded
The Early Learning Facilities fund has been a vital support for child care providers across Washington, helping them keep up with the growing demand of the community. The Legislature increased funding for the next two years, which will continue the work to improve access to child care facilities and enhance the quality of care.
Coordinated Recruitment & Enrollment (CRE) Maintained
This vital support began last year and helps families navigate their early learning options. CRE also supports licensed child care providers and school districts to ensure that children and families receive care that fits their family’s unique needs. This supportive provider collaboration will maximize resources and access for 3- to 5-year-olds.
Budget Cuts That Will Hurt Our Communities:
Working Connections Child Care Subsidy Co-Pay Increases Coming in FY27
Monthly co-pays will rise by more than $50, from an already steep $215, starting in July 2027. Though families have a year to prepare, this change could price some out of child care entirely. More subsidy support is urgently needed.
Family, Friend & Neighbor (FFN) Care Eliminated
FFN care—used by families unable to access traditional child care—will lose state funding in July 2025. This eliminates a trusted, culturally responsive model that many families rely on.
Mental Health Support Slashed
The Holding Hope program will see its funding cut in half effective July 2025. At BrightSpark, that means a reduction from nine mental health consultants to just two, drastically limiting support for children, families, and providers navigating emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges.
Why This Still Matters
The Bloom Together campaign is more than a fundraiser—it’s our way of responding to this moment. Every gift helps us:
- Support families facing rising costs
- Advocate for smarter, more equitable policies
- Fill in the gaps left behind by funding cuts
Give today to help us push forward through these challenges and continue to bloom!
Thank you for standing with us. We are so grateful to be in this with you.
With gratitude,
The BrightSpark Team
There’s More than One Way to Give!
BrightSpark accepts donations in many forms: cash, credit cards, fund transfers, checks, money orders, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, donor-advised funds, and more! If you have any questions or would like more information on ways to give, please get in touch with our fund development department at getinvolved@childcare.org.
We are so grateful to all our donors and community partners, thank you for supporting our youngest community members!
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