Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Hawaii state assistance for childcare costs

The cost of childcare can be very expensive and a large part of a family’s budget – especially for single working parents. There are programs offered by the state to help cover the cost of childcare to those who qualify.


Child Care Connection Hawaii, a program run by the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services, provides families with:

  • Subsidies to help with childcare expenses
  • Guidance in selecting a provider
  • Information about programs
  • Referrals to community resources

Child Care Connection Hawaii will pay a subsidy for childcare by providers approved by the Department of Human Services. By participating in the program, parents can remain working while an approved provider is looking after their keiki.

There are some requirements for eligibility in the program, unless the childcare is provided for protective reasons and the family is referred for assistance. The general eligibility requirements are:  

  • Children must be up to 13 years old, or between 13 and 18 years old and can’t do self-care
  • Parents or caregivers must be employed, in school, or in a job training program
  • Gross monthly income can’t exceed 85 percent of the state median income for a family of the same size

For more information about Child Care Connection Hawaii, visit the state’s Department of Human Services website.