NIAGARA COUNTY, N.Y. — Niagara County families relying on childcare assistance are facing new uncertainty after receiving letters this week warning that applications and recertifications for working families may soon be denied due to a lack of available funding.

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In recent years, New York State raised eligibility for childcare assistance to 85% of the State Median Income, allowing more families to qualify for help. But that expansion, coupled with rising demand, has strained county resources. As a result, Niagara County’s Department of Social Services says it may be forced to place eligible working families on a waitlist.

For parents like Lindsey Groffenberg, the news arrives at a painful time.

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