Finding quality and affordable child care is a significant concern for many families in Arizona. The good news is that Arizona offers a range of programs designed to assist families in accessing the care their children need. This guide will walk you through the primary Arizona Child Care Programs available, helping you understand eligibility and how to apply.
Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance
The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) plays a crucial role in supporting families by offering financial assistance for child care. This support is managed by the DES Division of Child Care and is designed to help eligible families, particularly those with lower incomes, afford quality early care and education. By covering a portion of child care costs, DES assistance expands access to enriching early learning environments for children across Arizona. Importantly, this assistance extends to children involved with the Department of Child Safety due to abuse or neglect, and families experiencing homelessness, ensuring support for vulnerable populations.
Eligibility for DES child care assistance includes a variety of circumstances, such as:
- Low-income working families: Assistance is available to families who are working and meet specific income criteria.
- Teen parents in education programs: Teen parents who are enrolled in high school, GED programs, ESOL courses, or remedial education can receive support.
- Grandparents or guardians: When a child’s parents are not living in the home, grandparents or legal guardians can be eligible for assistance.
- Homeless or domestic violence shelter residents: Families residing in shelters are prioritized for child care assistance.
- Individuals with disabilities or conditions: Parents who are unable to care for their children due to a physical, mental, or emotional condition may qualify.
- Participants in court-ordered programs: Individuals participating in court-ordered community service or drug treatment programs are also eligible.
To determine if you qualify for DES child care assistance and to get application support:
- Contact Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R): Reach out to CCR&R at 1-800-308-9000 for guidance.
- Visit the DES website: Explore the “How to Apply for Child Care Assistance” section on the DES website for detailed instructions.
- Contact your local DES office: Find your nearest DES office to speak with a child care eligibility specialist or call 1-602-542-4248.
Please be aware that the processing time for child care assistance applications can take up to 30 days.
Quality First Scholarships
Quality First Scholarships, funded by First Things First, are another vital resource for Arizona families. These scholarships are specifically designed to help low-income families access high-quality early care and education for children from birth to age 5. The scholarships are available at child care and preschool programs participating in Quality First, Arizona’s quality rating and improvement system for early learning programs.
Child care programs enrolled in Quality First distribute these scholarships directly to eligible families on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligibility is primarily based on family income levels, and scholarships are available to parents who are working, actively seeking employment, or engaged in education or job training to improve their work skills. Additional eligibility criteria may apply, so it’s essential to inquire directly with participating programs.
If you’re interested in Quality First Scholarships:
- Scholarships are program-based: Remember that scholarships are provided by child care providers, not directly by Quality First or First Things First.
- Use the Quality First search tool: Utilize the search tool on the First Things First website to locate child care and preschool programs near you that offer Quality First Scholarships. Note that not all Quality First programs offer scholarships.
- Contact programs directly: Reach out to programs listed as offering Quality First Scholarships via phone or email to inquire about current scholarship availability.
- Join waiting lists and stay in touch: If scholarships are currently unavailable, ask to be placed on the program’s scholarship waiting list and maintain contact, as availability can change. Simultaneously, contact other programs offering Quality First scholarships to broaden your search.
- Contact the Quality First Scholarships team: For further assistance, contact the Quality First Scholarships team at Valley of the Sun United Way at 1-866-973-0012 or via email at [email protected].
Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs offering comprehensive early childhood education and family support services. Head Start programs serve preschool-aged children (3 and 4 years old), while Early Head Start caters to infants and toddlers. These programs are specifically designed for low-income families, generally those at or below the federal poverty level, and provide free, high-quality early learning experiences. Beyond education, Head Start and Early Head Start offer crucial support services including nutrition, health, mental health, disability services, and social services, all while emphasizing strong parent involvement. Both programs are inclusive and welcome children with disabilities.
Head Start programs typically operate on a part-day schedule. While primarily serving low-income families, some programs may enroll a percentage of children from families with slightly higher incomes. Head Start program staff are responsible for determining eligibility and guiding families through the application process.
To find a Head Start or Early Head Start program in your area:
- Use the Head Start Locator: Utilize the Head Start Locator to find programs near you.
- Review the Arizona Head Start information sheet: Consult the Arizona Head Start information sheet for local program contacts. This information sheet is also available in Spanish.
- Contact local programs: Reach out to the Head Start or Early Head Start program serving your community directly. Program staff can provide detailed information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
Tax Credits and Additional Assistance
In addition to the programs outlined above, remember that state and federal tax credits can provide further financial relief for child care expenses. Furthermore, some child care programs may offer reduced rates for families with multiple children enrolled or provide discounts based on income, employer affiliation, and other factors.
For more information regarding tax credits and other potential forms of assistance, please visit CCR&R. They can provide comprehensive details on available options to help make child care more affordable for your family.
By exploring these Arizona child care programs, you can take significant steps towards securing quality and affordable care for your children, ensuring they have enriching early learning experiences while easing the financial burden on your family.
