Read the following message in Spanish and Somali.
As you may be aware, the federal government has announced a policy change related to several federal funding streams, including Head Start, that could impact the ability for undocumented families to access educational programs for young children.
We are still assessing the impact of this federal policy shift. However, families — regardless of their immigration status--continue to have access to the following free to low-cost child care and early learning programs offered by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)
- Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) helps eligible families pay for child care from birth up to the age of 12. When a family qualifies for child care subsidy benefits and chooses an eligible provider, the state pays a portion of the cost of child care.
- If you have questions or need help applying? Support is available by phone in multiple languages. Call 844-626-8687 or visit the Child Care Subsidy webpage.
- Additional resources can be found in the Child Care Subsidy Toolkit.
- Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) offers free high-quality preschool to support child development and learning is offered to children ages 3 and 4. ECEAP offers preschool services, nutritious meals and snacks, health and dental screenings, and family support.
- To enroll a child, contact an ECEAP provider near you: ECEAP Site Locations
- Learn more about ECEAP: Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program
Our Washington state values have not changed; DCYF will continue to support the growth of healthy, resilient children in Washington state, regardless of immigration status. I encourage you to access these programs or share them with families in need. We look forward to seeing you.