Child Care Assistance Program
Child care services provide reimbursement to parents or direct payment to eligible child care providers
- Agency
- Missouri Department of Social Services, Children’s Division
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 1-800-735-2466
- Application Period
- Income Limit
- Varies; generally must be below 138% of the federal poverty level for child care financial assistance.
Child care services provide reimbursement to parents or direct payment to eligible child care providers. The purpose of the program is to assist families with childcare expenses to allow the parents to work or attend school or training programs.
Child care services provide reimbursement to parents or direct payment to eligible child care providers. The purpose of the program is to assist families with childcare expenses to allow the parents to work or attend school or training programs.
Eligibility Requirements
Residents of Missouri with children under the age of 13, or under 19 if disabled; must be employed or attending an approved training or educational program.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the Child Care Subsidy application through the state platform or paper application and submit it to their local Family Support Division office.
Required Documents
Proof of income, residency, child’s age, and cost of child care services.
Images & PDFs
Title IV-E Prevention Plan - Missouri Department of Social Services
An informative guide detailing the goals of the Missouri Child Welfare Practice Model, focusing on safety, well-being, service, innovation, integrity, and permanency.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Breaking the Stigma: The Reality of Child Care Assistance
1/12/2023 | Coverage: national
This report focuses on the stigma surrounding public assistance and provides strategies to normalize and support families accessing these benefits.
Source: Child Care Aware of America
Coverage Area: national
Child Care Costs and Economic Stability
11/1/2022 | Coverage: national
This government report outlines the financial burden of child care costs on families and emphasizes the importance of assistance programs.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: national
Child Care Subsidies: Supporting Families and Economies
8/30/2021 | Coverage: national
This national study outlines how child care subsidies alleviate financial strain for families, especially amid rising living costs.
Source: National Child Care Association
Coverage Area: national
The Economic Impact of Child Care Assistance in Missouri
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report analyzes the economic benefits of Child Care Assistance in Missouri, highlighting its role in supporting working families and boosting local economies.
Source: Missouri Department of Social Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Child Care Stabilization Grant Program Launch
1/1/2021Missouri launched the Child Care Stabilization Grant Program to provide financial support to child care providers recovering from the pandemic's economic impact.
CARES Act Child Care Funding
3/27/2020The federal CARES Act provided emergency funding to support child care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Child Care Assistance Program Funding Increase
9/16/2014The state of Missouri approved a funding increase for the Child Care Assistance Program to help more families access affordable care.
Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program Expansion
7/1/2006Missouri expanded its child care subsidy program to serve more low-income families and improve access to quality care.
Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Established
11/28/1990The CCDBG was established to provide federal funding to states for child care assistance programs, enhancing access for low-income families.
FAQ
To apply for the Child Care Assistance Program in Missouri, you can complete the application online through the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) website. Alternatively, you may request a paper application by contacting your local Family Support Division office. Be prepared to provide information about your household, income, and the child care services you need.
Reference: https://mydss.mo.gov/children-youth/child-care-assistance/how-to-apply
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in Missouri helps low-income families pay for child care services. It aims to provide financial support so parents can work or attend school while ensuring their children receive quality care. Eligibility is determined by family size, income, and the ages of the children requiring care.
Reference: https://mydss.mo.gov/children-youth/child-care-assistance
Eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program in Missouri is based on several factors including income, family size, and the age of the child. Families must meet specific income guidelines to qualify. Additionally, the program is available for families with children up to the age of 13, or up to age 19 if the child has special needs.
Before applying for the Child Care Assistance Program, make sure you have the following items:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Birth certificates or other identification for children
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
Having these documents ready can streamline the application process.
To get started with your application, follow these action items:
- Visit the Missouri Department of Social Services website.
- Gather necessary documentation as outlined above.
- Complete the online application or request a paper application.
- Submit your application along with the required documents.
By following these steps, you can ensure your application is submitted correctly.
Reference: https://mydss.mo.gov/children-youth/child-care-assistance/faq
Eligibility and funding availability are subject to change based on state regulations.
