Child Care Assistance in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, residents who need help paying for child care services the state’s Department of Human Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Families must meet certain guidelines to qualify, but those who already participate in the Rhode Island Works Program automatically already meet the requirements for CCAP. Those who don’t participate in the Rhode Island Works Program may still be eligible. Some of the necessary guidelines include working at least 20 hours each week or enrolled in a pre-approved educational or work training program and make up to 180% of the Federal Poverty Line. Those qualified to participate in CCAP will still be required to pay a weekly co-pay in order to assist with child care payments, but the amount due will depend on the household income and family size. To apply for CCAP in Rhode Island, visit the Child Care Assistance Application online.

How to get started:
To get started in the enrollment process, find the programs in your area by using the online Head Start Locator.

Many programs use the Federal Poverty Line as a guide for financial assistance with child care. If your annual income is at or below the poverty line, you may qualify for financial help. These are the guidelines:

• A family of 1 must make less than $11,490 per year.


• A family of 2 must make less than $15,510 per year.


• A family of 3 must make less than $19,530 per year.


• A family of 4 must make less than $23,550 per year.


• A family of 5 must make less than $27,570 per year.


• A family of 6 must make less than $31,590 per year.


• A family of 7 must make less than $35,610 per year.


• A family of 8 must make less than $39,630 per year.