Child Care Assistance

The McLeod County Child Care Assistance program helps families pay for child care so that parents can work, attend school or look for a job.  This program is supported by state and federal funds.

The family may need to pay a portion of the child care cost, called a co-pay.  Co-pays are based on family size and income.  Family income must be less than 67% of the State Median Income at the time of initial application to qualify for funds. Programs Available:

Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) - Child Care Assistance is provided for families receiving MFIP cash assistance so parents can work, attend school, or attend social service appointments.
 
Diversionary Work Program (DWP) - Child Care Assistance is provided for families receiving DWP assistance so parents can work, job search, and work with Employment Services.
 
Transition Year Child Care Assistance - Assistance is provided for up to 12 months from the date MFIP or DWP closes, so parents can work or job search.  School and training programs are not approved activities for child care on this program.
 
Basic Sliding-Fee Child Care Assistance -  Basic Sliding-Fee Child Care Assistance is provided for families who need help paying for child care so they can work, job search or attend school. This assistance is for families with low incomes who are not enrolled in MFIP or DWP. 

Those who are interested in applying for help through the Child Care Assistance Program should call 320-864-3144 or 800-247-1756 or apply in person at the McLeod Government Center, 520 Chandler Avenue North, Glencoe.

Qualifying Child Care:The McLeod County Child Care Assistance program can pay any licensed child care center or licensed child care home that is registered with McLeod County.  If you need help finding licensed child care, call Child Care Aware of Minnesota at 888-291-9811 or visit ParentAware.org, an online search tool designed to help parents find child care and early education programs that will help their young children get ready for kindergarten.

Helpful Links and Files:McLeod Child Care Assistance 2024-2025 Plan
Child Care Aware of Minnesota
Parent Aware

The easiest way to apply for cash, food or child care assistance is to visit MNBenefits . This easy-to-complete on-line application is sent to our agency electronically and, can conveniently be signed electronically.  You will also be able to upload documents to include with your application such as paystubs, identification, shelter and utility costs, etc.

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