Colorado

Colorado Child Care Assistance Program

The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) provides child care assistance to families who are working, searching for employment, or are in training, and families who are enrolled in the Colorado Works program

Agency
CDHS Division of Early Care and Learning
Type
State Resource
Phone
303-866-5932
Application Period
Income Limit
Up to 165% of the federal poverty guideline, may not exceed 85% of the state median income
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The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) provides child care assistance to families who are working, searching for employment, or are in training, and families who are enrolled in the Colorado Works program. CCCAP provides access to reduced-cost child care at licensed or qualified (unlicensed) providers. The program is administered through county departments of social/human services under the direction of the CDHS Division of Early Care and Learning.

The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) provides child care assistance to families who are working, searching for employment, or are in training, and families who are enrolled in the Colorado Works program. CCCAP provides access to reduced-cost child care at licensed or qualified (unlicensed) providers. The program is administered through county departments of social/human services under the direction of the CDHS Division of Early Care and Learning.

Eligibility Requirements

Families working, searching for employment, in training, or enrolled in the Colorado Works program. Income limits apply.

Images & PDFs

BUSINESS GUIDE For Family Child Care Homes

BUSINESS GUIDE For Family Child Care Homes

A guide providing information and support for family child care homes in Colorado. It aims to educate and inspire child care providers without stigma.

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Colorado Partnership for Thriving - Evaluation Pyramid

Colorado Partnership for Thriving - Evaluation Pyramid

A visual pyramid illustrating different levels of intervention strategies focusing on socioeconomic factors to improve overall well-being.

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Public Benefits and Services Resource Manual

Public Benefits and Services Resource Manual

A comprehensive guide to Colorado's public service programs, including child care assistance, designed to educate and support individuals seeking benefits.

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Impact Reports

Impact of Child Care Assistance on Economic Stability in Colorado

5/15/2022 | Coverage: state

This report examines the significant role that child care assistance plays in enhancing economic stability for families in Colorado. It discusses how these programs enable parents to pursue employment and education while ensuring their children are cared for.

Source: Colorado Department of Human Services

Coverage Area: state

Reducing Stigma Around Child Care Assistance Programs

11/22/2021 | Coverage: national

This publication discusses the social stigma associated with receiving child care assistance and offers strategies for community engagement and awareness to foster a supportive environment for beneficiaries.

Source: Child Trends

Coverage Area: national

The Economic Burden of Child Care: Implications for Policy

3/10/2023 | Coverage: national

This national report analyzes the rising costs of child care and how they disproportionately affect low- and middle-income families. It highlights the importance of child care assistance in alleviating these financial burdens.

Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Coverage Area: national

Program Timeline

Introduction of the Colorado Preschool Program (CPP)

12/10/2010

The Colorado Preschool Program was launched, which provided additional funding and resources for early childhood education and integrated with the CCCAP.

Party: Democratic

Implementation of Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)

4/12/2006

Colorado implemented a Quality Rating and Improvement System to improve the quality of child care programs funded through CCCAP.

Party: Bipartisan

Welfare Reform and Child Care Funding

8/22/1996

The federal Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act affected funding for child care assistance, prompting Colorado to adjust its programs.

Bill: Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act
Party: Republican

Expansion of Income Eligibility Limits

5/15/1990

The state legislature expanded the income eligibility limits for the CCCAP, enabling more families to qualify for assistance.

Party: Democratic

Establishment of Child Care Assistance Program

1/1/1986

The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) was established to help low-income families access affordable child care services.

Party: Bipartisan

FAQ

To find a child care provider that accepts CCCAP, you can start by visiting the Colorado Child Care Resource and Referral website, where you can search for local providers who participate in the program. Additionally, your local county child care assistance office can provide you with a list of approved providers in your area.

Reference: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdhs/child-care-resource-and-referral

The Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) helps families pay for child care while they work or attend school. This program is designed to assist low-income families in accessing affordable and quality child care services, allowing parents to maintain employment and support their children's early development.

Reference: https://cdhs.colorado.gov/child-care/cccap

Eligibility for the CCCAP is determined based on several factors including income, family size, and the purpose of needing child care. Typically, families must meet specific income guidelines that align with federal poverty levels, and they may need to be working, attending school, or involved in job training programs.

Before applying for the CCCAP, please ensure you have the following documents ready:

  • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
  • Identification for all family members
  • Social Security numbers for all family members
  • Documentation of employment or school enrollment
  • Proof of residency in Colorado

Having these documents ready will streamline your application process.

To apply for CCCAP, follow these action items:

  1. Visit the Colorado Department of Human Services website to access the application.
  2. Complete the application form accurately and thoroughly.
  3. Submit the application along with the required documents.
  4. Follow up with your local child care assistance office to check on your application status.

Completing these steps will help you secure child care assistance efficiently.

Reference: https://cdhs.colorado.gov/child-care/cccap

Eligibility requirements may change; always check the official site for the most current information.

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