Child Care Financial Assistance for Low-Income Parents

The Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families implemented the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program (authorized by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, PL 104-193) to assist low-income families, families receiving temporary public assistance, and those transitioning from public assistance in obtaining child care so they can work or further their education.

The Child Care and Development Fund program has changed Federally subsidized child care programs in States allowing them to serve families through a single, integrated child care system. All child care funding is now combined under the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act. Revised final regulations which apply to the combined Child Care and Development Fund program were issued on July 24, 1998.

Subsidized child care services are available to eligible families through certificates or contracts with providers. Parents may select any legally operating child care provider. Child care providers serving children funded by CCDF must meet basic health and safety requirements set by the States and Tribes. Requirements must cover prevention and control of infectious diseases, including immunizations; building and physical premises safety; and minimum health and safety training.

State Child Care and Development Fund Contacts