Program Supports

CCAP Updates

Initial Activity Search (IAS):

Through June 30, 2024, parents who are unemployed and engaged in a job search or attempting to enroll in an education/training activity are eligible for three months of Child Care Assistance, provided they meet all other CCAP eligibility requirements. If parents become employed or enroll in an educational activity before the end of the 3 months and meet all other CCAP eligibility requirements, their eligibility will continue for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.  Parents need to submit documentation showing they are working or enrolled in school to extend their initial 3-month eligibility period.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for Initial Activity Search?
   1. Initial Activity Search can be requested for one, both parents and guardians.
      1. Download and print a paper application here.
      2. Usted puede descargar e imprimir una solicitud en papel aquí. 
2. What supporting documentation is needed to be eligible for Initial Activity Search?
   1. No supporting documentation is needed.
      1. Clients need to write on the application that they are looking for work or preparing to enroll in school.
3. What is a client’s eligibility for Initial Activity Search?
   1. Parents are eligible for 5 days a week.
      1. Non-School aged children who are not enrolled in school: 5 Full-Time days.
      2. School-Aged Child: 5 Part-time days from September through May. Full Time during the summer months.
4. How many times can this activity search be granted in a rolling calendar?
   1. Parents are eligible for one Initial Activity Search during a 12-month period.
5. Does the parent need to report an activity after being approved for Initial Activity Search?
   1. Yes, Parents must report an activity after being approved for Initial Activity Search to continue for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.
6. Will Initial Activity Search be extended to 12 months automatically?
   1. Parents must report an activity after the initial 3-month approval to be eligible for the remaining 9 months of the initial 12-month eligibility period.

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Initial Activity Search (IAS)

Transition to Smart Start Grants from Strengthen and Grow Grants

Applications for Smart Start Transition Grants will open in July 2023. Smart Start Transition Grants will replace Strengthen and Grow grants and will be administered by the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. For more additional information, visit: Smart Start Transition Grants - Gateways to Opportunity (ilgateways.com)

Parent Copayment Information

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