Illinois Child Care Assistance Program

The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) makes it possible for families who qualify to receive financial assistance in paying for child care. Parents must be engaged in a qualifying activity such as work and/or school to be eligible. Families must also meet the income and family size guidelines below:

Family Size Eligible Monthly Gross Income
(Before taxes)
2 $0 - $2,392
3 $0 - $3,011
4 $0 - $3,631
5 $0 - $4,251
6 $0 - $4,871
7 $0 - $5,490
8 $0 - $6,110

Families can use the Eligibility Calculator to see if they are eligible for child care assistance.

To apply, Download and print the Child Care Application and all other required documents.

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Chicago: Ready to Learn!

Part of a three-year, $36 million investment in early childhood education, Chicago: Ready to Learn! was launched in 2013 and has expanded preschool options for thousands of children across the city.

While early childhood education is important for the healthy development of every child, each family has different needs. It is important to select a program that fits your family's budget and schedule, and one that provides a safe and stimulating environment for your child.

Lake Shore Schools is a community-based partner of Chicago: Ready to Learn!, providing early childhood education for children birth to age five in preparation for kindergarten. This program is targeted to low- and moderate-income families.

Families must meet the income and family size guidelines below:

Family Size Eligible Gross Monthly Income
(Before Taxes)
2 $0 - $2,392
3 $0 - $3,011
4 $0 - $3,631
5 $0 - $4,251
6 $0 - $4,871
7 $0 - $5,490
8 $0 - $6,110

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