Many parents seek affordable and reliable child care to balance work or job training with family responsibilities. Welfare programs exist to provide assistance with these crucial needs, offering a helping hand to eligible families. One such program is California Work Opportunity and Responsibility for Kids (CalWORKs) Child Care, designed to support families in California.
CalWORKs Child Care is available to current or former CalWORKs cash aid recipients who are employed or participating in approved Welfare-to-Work activities. This program helps cover child care costs, enabling parents to pursue employment or training opportunities. Pregnant and parenting teens in the Cal-Learn program also qualify for CalWORKs child care benefits. The program supports child care for children up to 12 years old, and in cases of exceptional needs or severe disabilities, assistance can extend to children up to 21 years of age.
To apply for CalWORKs Child Care, it’s essential to contact your local county welfare department. These departments administer the program at the county level and can guide you through the application process. They will provide detailed information on eligibility requirements and the necessary steps to access these vital child care services.
If you are already receiving CalWORKs child care and have questions about your services or current arrangements, reaching out to your assigned Child Care Worker or Welfare-to-Work worker is recommended. They are best positioned to address your concerns and provide support related to your ongoing child care.
For families in California seeking child care resources beyond CalWORKs, local Child Care Resource & Referral (R&R) programs offer valuable assistance. These programs maintain directories of child care providers and offer resources and information to parents navigating child care options. They also support potential child care providers with the licensing process and training. For more immediate assistance, the Child Care Resource and Referral network can be reached toll-free at 1-800-KIDS-793. Additionally, the Alternative Payment Program (APP) in your county can provide further information and options for child care support.
