👶

Childcare

Child care subsidies and assistance

3 programs available
Last updated: September 2026

DC Child Care Subsidy Program

Financial assistance to help pay for child care so parents can work, attend school, or participate in training.

👤Who Qualifies

DC families with children ages 0-12 (or up to 19 with special needs) with income at or below 250% federal poverty level. Parent must be working, in school, or in training.

💵How Much

Covers most or all child care costs based on income. Copays range from $0 to $215/month per child.

📝How to Apply

Apply online at childcareconnections.osse.dc.gov or call My Child Care DC.

📞Contact

My Child Care DC: (202) 727-0284

Head Start / Early Head Start

Free early childhood education and comprehensive services for children ages 0-5 from low-income families.

👤Who Qualifies

DC children from birth to age 5 from families at or below 100% federal poverty level. Priority for homeless, foster, and TANF families.

💵How Much

Free full-day early education, meals, health screenings, and family support services

📝How to Apply

Contact DC's early learning resource center or local Head Start program.

📞Contact

OSSE: (202) 727-6436

DC Universal Pre-K

Free high-quality pre-kindergarten for all DC 3 and 4-year-olds regardless of income.

👤Who Qualifies

All DC children ages 3-4 by September 30 of school year.

💵How Much

Free full-day pre-K education

📝How to Apply

Apply through My School DC lottery at myschooldc.org.

📞Contact

My School DC: (202) 888-6336

Disclaimer: Program details may change. Always verify eligibility requirements and benefit amounts directly with official program sources before applying.

Share This Page

Help others find these resources

Share:

Looking for Housing?

DMV Housing connects voucher holders with landlords who accept Section 8.

Create Free Profile

Calculate Move-In Costs

Know your total costs before signing a lease.

Use Calculator →