The Wisconsin SHARES program is dedicated to supporting working families with low income by providing crucial child care assistance. This subsidy program helps eligible families manage the costs of child care for children up to 13 years old, and in certain situations, even for children older than 13. To qualify for Wisconsin SHARES, families must meet specific income criteria and participate in a qualifying activity.
Qualifying activities for the Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy Program include:
- Employment, ensuring parents can work and maintain financial stability.
- Enrollment in high school for parents under 20 years of age, supporting teen parents in completing their education.
- Participation in Wisconsin Works (W2) or Food Share Employment and Training (FSET) programs, aiding individuals in gaining employment skills and experience.
- Enrollment as a student in post-secondary education while also maintaining a minimum number of work hours per week, as defined by program guidelines, encouraging further education alongside work.
For most families participating in the Wisconsin SHARES program, a portion of the child care expenses will be their responsibility, with the subsidy covering the remaining cost. The child care benefit is directly paid to the chosen child care provider. It’s important to note that child care services must be provided by a certified or licensed provider. To locate a suitable provider in your vicinity, please utilize the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families YoungStar Child Care Finder website.
Applying for the Wisconsin SHARES child care subsidy program is designed to be accessible through multiple channels:
Online Application: The most convenient method is to apply online through the State of Wisconsin’s ACCESS website. Visit https://access.wisconsin.gov and click on the “Apply for Benefits” option to start your application.
Telephone Application: For those who prefer to apply by phone, or for any Economic Support benefit inquiries, please contact the Bay Lake Consortium at 1 (888) 794-5747.
In Person Application: Applicants can also apply in person at the Brown County Health & Human Services office, located at 111 N. Jefferson Street, Green Bay, WI 54301. The Economic Support Services area is on the 2nd floor and is open from Monday to Thursday, 7:30am to 5:00pm, and Friday, 7:30am to 11:30am. You will need to complete some initial paperwork, after which a client registration staff member will schedule an appointment for you to meet with an eligibility worker.
Mailed Application: A paper application form can be requested by calling 1 (888) 794-5747. Completed paper applications can be faxed to 1.855.293.1822 or mailed to CDPU; PO Box 5234, Janesville, WI 53547-5234.
If you happen to lose your MyWIChildCare EBT card or if it gets stolen, or if you require a replacement card, please contact 1 (877) 207-7601 for assistance.
For more detailed information regarding the Wisconsin SHARES Child Care Program, please visit the official Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website.
| Contact Information: | Bay Lake ConsortiumPhone: 1 (888) 794-5747 |
|---|---|
| Office Address: | 111 N Jefferson St Green Bay, WI 54301Map |
