Poster #118 - Understanding Faith-Based Providers’ Participation in the Child Care Subsidy System: Mixed-Methods Evidence from Arkansas

• In Event: Friday Poster Reception

Abstract

Introduction and Background: Faith-based child care programs play a significant role in Arkansas’s early childhood care and education system, particularly in communities where few other providers operate. However, these programs are substantially less likely to participate in the state’s child care subsidy system. This creates a disconnect between a critical source of care and the public funding mechanisms designed to support low-income families.

Purpose and Research Question: This study examines the barriers and motivations that influence faith-based providers’ decisions about accepting child care subsidy vouchers. It focuses on how program structure, governance, and perceptions of state systems shape providers’ willingness to participate.

Methods: The research team conducted a statewide survey of 256 faith-oriented and faith-affiliated early childhood programs, with a 41 percent response rate (n = 104). The survey was supplemented by administrative data on subsidy participation and quality ratings. Analysis was further informed by interviews with faith-based providers and community stakeholders.

Results and Findings: Among surveyed programs, only 37 percent reported currently accepting child care subsidy vouchers. Of those that do not, 67 percent reported that no available support or incentive would make them more likely to participate. The most common reasons for non-participation were being full with private pay families (61 percent), a waitlist of private pay families (39 percent), required participation in the state’s quality rating system (33 percent), and administrative complexity (30 percent). Still, a notable minority of respondents said that talking to other faith-based directors who participate in the subsidy system could increase their willingness to consider joining. Most providers accepting subsidies rated serving low-income families and alignment with their faith mission as important motivators.

Conclusion and Implications: While some faith-based programs remain firmly outside the public subsidy system, others are open to participation if they receive the right kind of information and support. Peer-driven strategies and more accessible technical assistance may offer promising paths to increase enrollment. Findings suggest the importance of framing policy solutions in ways that reflect the values and operating realities of faith-based providers. This has implications for states seeking to expand equitable access to publicly funded child care.

Authors

• Todd Grindal
  Presenting Author

• Nancy Perez, SRI International
  Non-Presenting Co-Author

• Kirby A. A Chow, SRI International
  Non-Presenting Co-Author