Early Childhood and Out of School Time Services Program (ECOSTS)
Childcare Assistance, which is a component of the Early Childhood and Out of School Time Services program (ECOSTS), is designed to assist the “working poor” or full-time students with the cost of childcare for a maximum of one (1) year. This program handles childcare subsidies for income eligible parent(s). In addition, childcare information, referrals, and workshops for parents/providers are offered.
The Adolescent Parent Program component of ECOSTS Services seeks to provide quality childcare for children of adolescent parents who are full-time students.
The Early Childhood and Out of School Time Services Program (ECOSTS) seeks to:
1. Remove financial barriers to quality childcare by providing a subsidy to parents who need help with childcare and who DO NOT qualify for any other forms of public assistance
2. Remove geographic barriers by allowing parents to pick any licensed program that best meet their needs
3. Assist parents in choosing quality childcare by training parents in what to look for when selecting a childcare center.
4. Assist parents in taking over the full cost of their childcare by the end of the program by providing financial planning and budget development workshops and follow-up groups for parents in the program.
For a period up to 12 months, the Program pays a portion of childcare expenses for working parents whose income falls within 80% of the area median income. With this additional support, families can become fully able to fund their child’s care within a short period of time.
TO QUALIFY FOR THIS PROGRAM, YOU MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES:
• Reside within Dallas city limits
• Choose childcare in licensed facility within Dallas city limits
• Have legal custody of the children to be enrolled in childcare
• The total gross monthly income for ALL adults in the household must meet guidelines based on the size of the family
FAMILY SIZE / TOTAL GROSS MONTHLY INCOME
2 $4600
3 $5175
4 $5746
5 $6208
6 $6667
7 $7125
8 $7588
Additional information is available by calling Lucy Hernandez at 214-670-8838.