Understanding Day Care Assistance Programs in Los Angeles
Navigating the world of child care can be overwhelming, but fortunately, Los Angeles County has agencies designed to simplify the process. Two key types of organizations are ready to assist: Resource and Referral (R&R) agencies and Alternative Payment Program (APP) agencies.
Resource and Referral agencies act as informational hubs. They are contracted by the California Department of Education and specialize in providing information and referrals to licensed child care services. If you need help finding suitable day care options or have general questions about child care in Los Angeles, R&R agencies are an excellent starting point. They also coordinate community resources to provide comprehensive support.
Alternative Payment Program agencies, on the other hand, focus on the financial aspect of child care. Contracted by the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), APP agencies administer the CalWORKs Stage 1 Child Care Program. This program provides reimbursements to child care providers, effectively reducing the out-of-pocket expenses for eligible families. If you qualify for the CalWORKs program, APP agencies can help manage payments and ensure your child care provider receives compensation.
Both R&R and APP agencies play crucial roles in making child care more accessible for Los Angeles families. Many agencies serve as both R&R and APP, offering a combined approach to assistance.
Los Angeles Agencies Providing Day Care Assistance
Below is a list of local agencies in Los Angeles that offer Resource and Referral and/or Alternative Payment Program services. You can contact these agencies directly to inquire about day care assistance, find referrals, and understand program eligibility.
Child Care Resource Center Antelope Valley – R&R/APP
250 Grand Cypress Avenue Palmdale, CA 93551
(661) 789-1200
Child Care Resource Center San Fernando Valley – R&R/APP
20001 Prairie Street Chatsworth, CA 91311
(818) 717-1000
Connections for Children – R&R/APP
5901 W. Century Blvd., Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90045
(310) 452-3202
Crystal Stairs – R&R/APP
5110 West Goldleaf Circle, Suite 150 Los Angeles, CA 90056
(888) 543-7247
(323) 299-8998
Mexican American Opportunity Foundation – R&R/APP
5100 S. Eastern Ave Commerce, CA 90040
(323) 890-1555
Options for Learning – R&R/APP
13100 Brooks Drive #100 Baldwin Park, CA 91706
(626) 856-5900
Pathways – R&R/APP
889 South Figueroa Street, Suite 601Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 427-2700
Pomona Unified School District – R&R/APP
1460 East Holt Avenue, Suite 174 Pomona, CA 91767
(909) 397-4740
City of Norwalk – APP
11929 Alondra Boulevard Norwalk, CA 90650
(562) 462-1713
Drew Child Development Corporation – APP
1411 W 190th Street, Suite 400 Gardena, CA 90248
(310) 609-3885
International Institute of Los Angeles – APP
3845 Selig Place Los Angeles, CA 90031
(323) 224-3800
For additional resources and broader information, you can also reach out to the following organizations:
- The California Child Care Resource & Referral Network: (800) KIDS-793, www.rrnetwork.org
- The Child Care Alliance of Los Angeles (CCALA): (888) 92-CHILD, www.ccala.net
- My 211LA: 211, www.211la.org
Conclusion
If you’re seeking day care assistance programs in Los Angeles, you are not alone. Numerous agencies and resources are dedicated to helping families like yours find and afford quality child care. Contacting the local R&R/APP agencies listed above is the first step towards accessing the support you need. These organizations can provide tailored guidance, referrals, and financial assistance information to ensure your child care needs are met.
