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Finding affordable, high-quality child care is a significant concern for many families. The Care Scholars Program, officially known as the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program and formerly the Child Care Subsidy, is designed to ease this burden. This Maryland initiative helps eligible families pay for quality child care and early education, ensuring children have access to enriching learning environments while parents work or attend school. The program is managed efficiently through Child Care Scholarship Central 2 (CCS Central 2), streamlining the application and support process.
Who is Eligible for the Care Scholars Program?
To qualify for the Care Scholars Program and receive child care assistance, families must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure that the scholarship supports those who need it most.
Residency and Activity Requirements
Firstly, applicants must be Maryland residents. Furthermore, at least one parent (in single-parent households) or both parents (in two-parent households residing together) must be either employed, participating in an approved training program, or attending school. This stipulation highlights the program’s aim to support working families and those striving for self-sufficiency. Eligibility also extends to recipients of Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), further broadening the reach of this crucial support system.
Income Guidelines
Income is a significant factor in determining eligibility for the Care Scholars Program. The program utilizes income scales to assess need, ensuring assistance reaches families who meet specific financial thresholds. There are two income scales: the Initial Income Scale for new applicants and those undergoing initial full evaluation, and the Continuation Income Scale for families already receiving ongoing child care services. These scales are updated periodically, and it’s crucial to refer to the most current charts to determine if your family’s income falls within the eligible range. Below is a table outlining the Maximum Annual Income based on family size:
| Child Care Scholarship Program |
|---|
| Family Size |
| Family of 2 |
| Family of 3 |
| Family of 4 |
| Family of 5 |
| Family of 6 |
| Family of 7 |
| Family of 8 |
| Family of 9 |
| Family of 10 |
| Family of 11 |
| Family of 12 |
*Initial Income Scale – applies to families without an active child care scholarship, customers submitting a Fast-Track initial application for a 60-Day Scholarship and customers submitting a Fast-Track Full “Redetermination Application” along with all documents for an “initial” full evaluation of all documents required for continued child care scholarship services beyond the 60-Day fast-track eligibility – family income must be below Initial Income Scale
Continuation Income Scale – families that have already received at least 52-weeks to 24 months of child care services, they have at least one active child care scholarship that has not expired at the time of submitting a new Child Care Scholarship Application for continued services – family income must be below Continuation Income Scale**
Additional Eligibility Requirements
Beyond residency, activity, and income, the Care Scholars Program has further eligibility criteria. Children must be under 13 years of age, or between 13 and 19 years old with a qualifying disability. Immunization according to Maryland state standards is required for participating children, although exemptions are considered with proper documentation. Proof of US citizenship or qualified alien status for each child needing care is also necessary. Importantly, parents themselves are not required to be US citizens. Finally, providing proof of identity for all household members and a photo ID for the head of household are essential steps in the application process.
Applying for the Care Scholars Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Care Scholars Program application process is designed to be user-friendly, especially with the introduction of the Child Care Scholarship Family Portal. This online portal streamlines the entire process, making it more accessible than ever.
Fast Track Application
For families needing immediate assistance, the Fast Track Child Care Scholarship application offers a quicker route to support. This expedited process can shorten the wait time to just three business days for initial assistance. Eligible families can receive 60 days of child care assistance while their full application is being processed.
To apply via the Fast Track, follow these steps:
- Register Online: Visit the Child Care Scholarship Family Portal at family.childcareportals.org and create an account.
- Complete Fast Track Application: Fill out the short online application and submit two key documents: proof of employment/school/training and proof of Maryland residency.
- Processing: CCS Central 2 will process your Fast Track application within three business days.
- Temporary Scholarship (If Eligible): If you meet the initial criteria, a 60-day temporary scholarship will be issued to help with child care costs while your full application is reviewed.
Full 52-Week Scholarship Application
To access longer-term support, families need to complete the full 52-week scholarship application. Within 15 days of Fast Track approval (if applicable), you will need to submit additional documentation to CCS Central 2, including:
- The complete Child Care Scholarship (CCS) application via the Family Portal.
- Verification of income (recent pay stubs, etc.).
- Proof of identity for all household members.
- Proof of approved activity (work, school, or training).
- Proof of all other income sources.
- Proof of address.
Providing this information promptly ensures a smooth transition from temporary to long-term child care assistance, if eligible.
Contacting the Care Scholars Program Support Center
For any questions or assistance regarding the Care Scholars Program, CCS Central 2 is your primary point of contact. They process applications and provider payments, and are available to help navigate the process.
For direct support and to get your questions answered, consider attending the Child Care Scholarship Customer Support Open Office Hours. These sessions offer dedicated time to address your concerns and provide guidance.
Child Care Scholarship Customer Support Open Office Hours Calendar
| September 24, 2024 | May 20, 2025 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 8, 2024 | June 10, 2025 | ||||||
| November 19, 2024 | July 15, 2025 | ||||||
| December 17, 2024 | August 19, 2025 | ||||||
| January 14, 2025 | September 16, 2025 | ||||||
| February 18, 2025 | October 21, 2025 | ||||||
| March 18, 2025 | November 18, 2025 | ||||||
| April 25, 2025 | December 16, 2025 |
The Care Scholars Program is a valuable resource for Maryland families seeking assistance with child care costs. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, families can access the support they need to ensure their children receive quality early care and education. Don’t hesitate to explore the resources and apply through the Family Portal to see if your family qualifies for this beneficial program.
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