Navigating the costs of child care can be a significant challenge for working families. Fortunately, programs like the Illinois Department of Human Services’ Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered in some areas by organizations like the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, offer vital support. Tri-Town YMCA actively participates in CCAP, making quality child care more accessible for eligible families in Illinois. This guide will walk you through understanding and accessing the Ymca Child Care Assistance Program, ensuring your children receive the care they need while you pursue work or education.
Understanding the Illinois CCAP and YMCA Partnership
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is designed to help income-eligible Illinois families afford child care, enabling parents to work or attend school. The program is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and locally administered by agencies like the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago in Addison. Tri-Town YMCA works directly with this YWCA branch to facilitate CCAP for families seeking care at their facilities. This partnership means that if you choose Tri-Town YMCA for your child care needs and meet the CCAP eligibility criteria, you can receive financial assistance to cover a portion of the costs.
Income Eligibility for YMCA Child Care Assistance
Eligibility for CCAP is primarily based on family income and size. The program uses a tiered system based on the Federal Poverty Level to determine maximum monthly income limits. Here’s a breakdown of the income thresholds to see if your family might qualify for child care assistance through the YMCA:
| FAMILY SIZE | MAXIMUM MONTHLY INCOME* | ANNUAL INCOME |
|---|---|---|
| 2 People | $2,847 | $34,164 |
| 3 People | $3,620 | $43,440 |
| 4 People | $4,367 | $52,404 |
| 5 People | $5,114 | $61,368 |
| 6 People | $5,860 | $70,320 |
| 7 People | $6,607 | $79,284 |
| 8 People | $7,354 | $88,248 |
| 9 People | $8,100 | $97,200 |
| 10 People | $8,847 | $106,164 |
*Indicates 200% of Federal Poverty Level.
Important Income Notes:
- These figures represent the gross monthly income for your family.
- For two-parent households (including spouses or parents of a common child living together), the income of both parents is combined to assess eligibility.
Before proceeding with the full application, you can use the Eligibility Calculator provided by the Illinois Department of Human Services to get an initial indication of your potential eligibility.
Applying for YMCA Child Care Assistance: A Step-by-Step Guide
Enrolling in the YMCA Child Care Assistance Program through Tri-Town YMCA involves a straightforward process:
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Initial Eligibility Check: Utilize the Eligibility Calculator to determine if your family’s gross monthly income falls within the qualifying range.
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Connect with Tri-Town YMCA: Contact Tri-Town YMCA at 630.790.6600 to confirm they have availability and accept CCAP funding. Follow the prompts to reach Early Childhood Services (Option 3), then choose Option 2 for clients. You can inquire about providers in your area if needed at this stage by selecting Option 1 for providers.
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Complete the CCAP Application: Obtain and complete the CCAP application form in partnership with Tri-Town YMCA. You can arrange to email or drop off your application and supporting documents with them.
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Application Submission: Tri-Town YMCA will complete their section of the application and then submit it to the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago. They will ensure you are copied on the submission email for your records.
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Review and Determination: The YWCA will review your completed application and determine your eligibility. This process typically takes about ten business days from the date YWCA receives your application.
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Notification: You will receive an official notification of the CCAP decision by mail from the YWCA. Tri-Town YMCA will also be informed of the outcome.
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Manage Monthly Copayments: If approved, you will be responsible for a monthly copayment, due on the first of each month, payable directly to Tri-Town YMCA. They accept cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards. Be aware that late or declined payments may incur penalty fees.
Changing Providers or Updating Information
- Changing Providers: If you are already receiving CCAP benefits and wish to switch to Tri-Town YMCA, you must request a Change of Provider Form from your YWCA caseworker. Once completed, submit your portion to Tri-Town YMCA, and they will handle the submission to YWCA.
- Updating Information: For changes like adding children or updating your address, use the Change of Information Form. Note that provider changes require the specific Change of Provider Form from YWCA, not this form.
Key Resources and Further Assistance
For more detailed information about the Child Care Assistance Program, please visit the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago website or contact them directly at 630.790.6600.
You can also access the CCAP Application in English and CCAP Application in Spanish online.
Tri-Town YMCA is committed to supporting families in accessing affordable, high-quality child care. By participating in the YMCA Child Care Assistance Program through CCAP, they help ensure that financial constraints do not prevent children from receiving enriching early learning experiences.
