Children’s Center Grant

Congresswoman Nita Lowey held a June 11, 2018 press conference at the college’s Virginia Marx Children’s Center to announce multiyear funding of a grant for student parents. This $800,000 grant (about $211,000 per year for four years) will allow the college to provide subsidies for qualified, low income, Pell eligible student parents; assist the college in recruiting to enable more students to take advantage of the college’s childcare services; and provide student parents with additional support to help them achieve success as students and as parents. 35 families will receive annual stipends through the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) grant.

Other Scholarships & Grants

The St. Faith’s House Foundation provides scholarship funding to eligible student parents to cover childcare cost.

Message from President Belinda S. Miles:

“It is a special treasure to be able to support our students and their young children at the same time. This is a unique place where our students come to achieve their academic and career goals while their children take part in an accredited curriculum supporting early childhood development, a distinction among child care centers. We are especially grateful for Congresswoman Lowey’s strong advocacy on behalf of Westchester Community College students and the award-winning Virginia Marx Children’s Center,” said Dr. Miles.

Personal Story:

Tina Jones’ daughter is Kayla and she is four years old. Tina had her daughter in childcare at another facility and she was considering a change. She heard a lot about our facility so she switched over and has been thankful for all the services offered here. When she came to the college with her boyfriend, the child’s father, they decided to attend the college as a group! Kayla, who is leaving the Center for kindergarten, did very well at the Center. Tina is taking Liberal Arts and is considering transferring over the Radiologic Technology Program. Her boyfriend, registered for Liberal Arts classes. They both made the Dean’s List and are continuing their studies here – he’s taking summer classes and she’s coming back for more classes in the fall.

Additional testimonials

“The CCAMPIS and the St. Faith Grant has truly been a blessing for both me and my daughter. I remember when she first started at just 6 months old—she could barely sit up on her own. Now at 3 years old, she’s talking, counting, singing songs, and making friends every day. The teachers have been so supportive and loving, helping her grow socially and emotionally while giving me the chance to focus on my studies. There were days I felt overwhelmed with school and parenting, but knowing she was in a safe and stimulating environment gave me the strength to keep going. One of my favorite moments was watching her confidently perform in a music with Delores and how she helps her classmates like she’s the teacher of the class. it reminded me how far we’ve both come. Thanks to all who have made this possible.”

“I’m really grateful for the CCAMPIS and St. Faith program. It’s helped me stay focused on my goals without having to choose between my education and being a parent. I’m set to graduate in 2026, and programs like this are the reason I can keep pushing forward. Thank you for supporting students like me it truly makes a difference.”