ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) — Big money is coming to child care centers in Tompkins County.

Assemblymember Anna Kelles says $4.3 million in state grants will expand access to affordable quality child care. It’ll also provide support and training to child care providers in Tompkins County.

The money is being split between two groups: the Coddington Road Community Center is getting $4.2 million while $100,000 goes to the Child Development Council of Central New York.

“Our child care providers are the backbone of our communities, providing vital services for Tompkins and Cortland Counties’ working families, Kelles said. These funds will allow the Coddington Road Community Center and the CDC of CNY to continue delivering high quality care to our children at a critical time in their development. They will also enable these agencies to bolster the resources they offer to our child care providers. I am thrilled to provide $4.3 million and know these incredible agencies will continue to serve our children and families in an exemplary fashion for years to come.”