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Family & Children

Childcare subsidies, child support services, cash assistance, and family support programs.

4 programs available

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

Financial assistance to help low-income families pay for child care while they are working or pursuing education.

Who Qualifies

For families with children up to age 13 whose income meets state guidelines. Parents must be working, in school, or a qualifying activity.

family
child care
low-income
working parents

Child Support Services

Free state program that helps parents establish parentage and secure/enforce child support orders. 100% of collected payments go directly to the family.

Who Qualifies

Available free to any parent or caretaker needing assistance with child support.

family
child support
parents
legal
free

Head Start / Early Head Start

Free early childhood education, health, and nutrition services for low-income children from birth to age 5 and their families in Chicago.

Who Qualifies

For families with children from birth to age 5 that meet federal poverty income guidelines. Priority for families with special needs children.

family
children
education
free
preschool

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary cash assistance for low-income families with children to help pay for essential needs like food, shelter, and utilities.

Who Qualifies

For families with dependent children who meet income and asset limits. Adults may need to participate in work-related activities.

family
cash assistance
low-income
emergency