Parental Choice and Access Families can get a child care subsidy through the use of certificates or contracts. Under the certificate system, eligibility is determined by one of the child care resource and referral agencies located throughout the state. Parents can choose the child care provider who best fits their individual needs. An estimated 127,800 children will receive care under the certificate system in FY99. Under the site-administered contract system, families may apply for licensed care from a statewide network of more than 200 contracted providers.
Eligibility is determined on-site by the contracted provider.
This dual system provides families with the freedom to choose from a variety of care settings to best meet the needs of both parents and children. Quality DHS funds 17 child care resource and referral agencies statewide to help parents find quality care. Contracts provide for training and professional development for child care providers in their communities, as well as for consumer education for parents seeking and using child care. The Child Care program issues a Quality Enhancement Proposal each year. Funded proposals for FY99 include programs to educate and train caregivers, upgrade equipment and literacy materials, pursue accreditation and involve and support families of children in care.