Children playing in classroom

Childcare Works – for Families

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COMPASS

COMPASS is an online site that allows families to apply for several Pennsylvania benefits. Families can apply for Subsidized Childcare, Medical Assistance, Cash Assistance, SNAP, LIHEAP and CHIP.

Compass Application

County Assistance Office

The County Assistance Office is available to help provide financial assistance to families so you can become financially independent. If you have low income and have limited resources, you may be eligible in Pennsylvania for cash assistance or general assistance. To apply for subsidized childcare, Medical Assistance, Cash Assistance, SNAP, LIHEAP and CHIP, complete the applications below. 

Download Application – English

Download Application – Spanish

If you have low income and limited resources, you may be eligible in Pennsylvania for cash assistance or general assistance.

Child Care Works Application

Pennsylvania offers a subsidized child care program designed to assist eligible families in affording high-quality child care. This initiative is especially beneficial for parents who are working, pursuing their education, or engaging in other approved activities. The primary objective of the program is to eliminate financial obstacles that families face, enabling them to secure reliable child care services. By doing so, the program not only supports parents in their professional and educational endeavors but also fosters the healthy development of children, ensuring they have access to nurturing and enriching environments during their formative years.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

  • You must be a Pennsylvania resident.
  • You must work or train for a minimum of 20 hours per week. This can include 10 hours of work and 10 hours of training. 
    • If you are a teen parent, you must be enrolled in school full-time.
  • The copay is based on your income and family size. The Income Guidelines change every year based on the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIG). Some family expenses may be deductible. If you are not sure if you meet the income guidelines, please complete the application, and we will let you know if you qualify. 

If you would like to request a paper copy of the Child Care Works application, please visit your ELRC Region page here. Click on the region in which you live and then click on the green Child Care Works button.