Program Overview
The Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program is operated by the Department of Family and Children Services and helps very low income families afford quality child care. The program is available in all 159 counties statewide, and is based on the availability of funding. Subsidized care is available for children with ages ranging from birth to 13. This can be extended to age 18 if the child has special needs.
Parents or guardians may qualify to receive subsidized care if they:
- have limited income; and
- need child care to work, attend school or attend training
Families that qualify for the CAPS program can choose their own child care providers. Most eligible families pay a portion of the child care fee directly to the provider and CAPS pays a portion of the fee directly to the provider. The fee is based on the number of children needing child care and the amount of income that the family earns.
Funds Availibility
Child care funds are distributed by the federal government. There is a pre-set determination for the amount each state receives. This may lead to families being placed on a waiting list when funding becomes limited.
As families move and/or drop out of the program, or as funds become available, families on the waiting list are contacted. It is difficult to predict how long a family on the list may wait.
To apply contact the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) in the county where you live.
A staff member at the county DFCS office will know if funds are available to serve additional families and can describe the program requirements.
Locate a County DFCS Office
An interactive map designed to assist you in locating your local county DFCS office.
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