Maximum income eligibility limits have increased as of June 1, 1999. In all situations, the provider must be operating legally. Federal regulations require that in most instances providers must meet minimum health and safety standards in order to receive public funds. Families apply for wrap-around services at their local Department of Social Services. In order to receive wrap-around funding, the Head Start program must meet the same requirements as other child care providers.
Parents usually apply for child care services at the county department of social services.
In some counties, another agency such as a child care resource and referral agency has been designated to handle the subsidized care program. To find out where to apply, contact the Day Care Coordinator in your county. If the parent is eligible for subsidized child care services, the county DSS or local purchasing agency issues a Child Day Care Voucher to the parent for each eligible child. The voucher indicates that the child is eligible for a subsidized care payment and notifies the provider of the hours care is needed and whether the parent is responsible for a portion of the fee. Smart Start funding also helps parents pay for child care.