News Flash • Town of East Hampton Authorizes Emergency Grant

The East Hampton Town Board has approved an emergency grant of up to $75,000 to Project MOST in support of its Montauk Childcare program, located at the Montauk Playhouse Community Center.

Project MOST is a nonprofit organization that has been serving East Hampton families for more than two decades through high-quality after-school, summer, and early learning programs. Their work focuses on hands-on learning, health and wellness, arts, STEM, and community connection. In July 2024, Project MOST expanded its services to include the Montauk Childcare program, offering full-day care for children as young as six weeks old as well as pre-K after school care. The program has quickly become an essential resource for parents working long hours and for families who want their children to have a safe, nurturing, and enriching place to spend their days.

Recognizing the critical importance of childcare for working families, particularly in Montauk, the Town Board authorized an emergency allocation to ensure that the program continues uninterrupted. The funds will be used for operating expenses under an amended agreement. In addition to this grant, the Town also provides Project MOST with rent-free use of its space, underscoring its commitment to supporting childcare access for local families.

“Every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their child is safe, cared for, and supported while they are at work,” said East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. “Families in Montauk rely on this program every day, and this grant makes sure it will be there for them. Childcare opens doors for working parents and helps children build the foundation they need to thrive. It is also one of the ways a community shows its values, by standing with families and making sure no one is left behind.”

“So many parents are working long hours to provide for their families, and having childcare they can rely on means everything,” said Councilwoman Cate Rogers. “It gives children a safe and loving place to spend their day, and it gives parents the reassurance that their kids are being cared for. That is the kind of support every family deserves, and I am grateful we can help make it possible.”

The grant will be funded through a budget modification.