The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is committed to supporting working families by making quality child care more accessible. The Child Care Scholarship Program is designed to help eligible families afford child care, enabling parents to work, attend school, or participate in job training programs. This program provides financial assistance by directly paying child care providers, ensuring timely payments and connecting providers with resources through ABC Quality. If you’re a working parent in South Carolina, understanding how to apply for the Child Care Scholarship Program can be a crucial step in securing affordable child care.
Understanding the SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship
The primary offering, the SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship, aims to ease the financial burden of child care for working families in South Carolina. Over 1,900 child care providers across the state are enrolled in the program, ready to accept these scholarships. This widespread network ensures that families have options when choosing the best care for their children.
Who is Eligible for a Child Care Scholarship in South Carolina?
To qualify for the SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship, certain criteria must be met. Eligibility is primarily based on the needs of working families with young children. Here are the key requirements:
- Child Age: Your child or children must be between birth and 12 years of age. In specific situations, scholarships can support children aged 13 to 18 who have disabilities, developmental delays, or are in foster care.
- Work or Education Requirement: Parents or guardians must be working at least 15 hours per week, or be enrolled in school or a job training program. This requirement emphasizes the program’s goal of supporting working families and those striving for self-sufficiency.
- Income Limits: Gross family income must be at or below 85% of the state median income level. For a family of four, this annual income threshold is currently $83,446. This income limit ensures that the scholarship program serves families who need it most.
Steps to Apply for the Child Care Scholarship
Applying for the South Carolina Child Care Scholarship is primarily done through the DSS Benefits Portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:
- Access the DSS Benefits Portal: The application is available online through the DSS Benefits Portal. You can find the link here: Child Care Scholarship Applications.
- Create an Account or Log In: If you are a new user, you will need to create an account. If you are a returning user, simply log in with your existing credentials.
- Locate the Child Care Scholarship Application: Once logged in, navigate to the section for child care scholarships and find the application for the SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out all sections of the application form accurately and completely. Be prepared to provide information about your family, income, work or education status, and child care needs.
- Submit Your Application: After completing the form, submit your application through the portal.
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you have any questions about the Child Care Scholarship Program or need assistance with your application, the DSS provides several resources:
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Email Support: For scholarship and eligibility inquiries, you can email [email protected].
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Child Care Operations Center: You can contact the Child Care Operations Center for assistance.
- Client Number: (800) 476-0199
- Provider Number: (800) 262-4416
- Complaint Line: (800) 763-2223
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on State Holidays
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Mailing Address: For written correspondence, you can use the following mailing address:
Child Care Scholarship Program
P.O. Box 100160
Columbia, SC 29202-3160
The South Carolina Child Care Scholarship Program is a valuable resource for working families. By understanding the eligibility requirements and application process, you can take the first step towards accessing affordable, quality child care for your children.
