For many Virginia families, the cost of child care is one of the biggest hurdles to making work, school, and daily life possible. If you’re searching for ways to afford quality care, you’re not alone—and there are resources available that may be able to help.
We know that every family’s situation is different, and navigating financial assistance options can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a Financial Assistance Quick Reference Flyer, and why we want to highlight a few key programs here to help you get started.
Programs Administered by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)
Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP)
Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI)
The Child Care Subsidy Program helps Virginia families afford child care so parents can work, look for a job, or participate in school or training. If you qualify, the program pays all or a portion of your child care costs directly to your provider, making care more accessible and affordable. Eligibility is based on factors such as income, family size, your work or education status, and residency. Your application will be reviewed within 30 days. During that time, you may be required to participate in an interview and provide documentation of basic eligibility requirements.
The Virginia Preschool Initiative offers free, high-quality preschool to eligible three- and four-year-olds, giving young children a strong start before kindergarten. VPI prioritizes families with lower incomes, children experiencing homelessness, children with disabilities or delays, and those whose parent or guardian did not complete high school. The program is run by local public school systems, and each community may have its own application process. If you have a preschool-aged child, your local school division can provide details on how to apply and what documents you’ll need.
Support for Military Families
Military life often comes with unique challenges – including frequent moves and sometimes limited access to on-base care. The Military Fee Assistance Program helps eligible military families pay for child care at approved local providers when on-base care isn’t available. This support is open to active duty service members, certain National Guard and Reserve members, and Department of Defense civilian families.
Head Start & Early Head Start
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs that provide free early learning, health services, and family support to eligible families with young children. Early Head Start serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women, while Head Start supports children ages three to five. These programs prioritize families with low income, children with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness. Services are available throughout Virginia, and each program can help you determine if your family qualifies.
Local & Community Programs
Mixed Delivery Programs provide publicly-funded, high-quality early childhood education to eligible families in select Virginia communities. These programs bring together public and private child care providers to increase access for children who might not otherwise have the opportunity. Eligibility and availability can vary by location, so families should check with their local Ready Region to learn more.
Many local governments, community organizations, and child care providers in Virginia offer their own forms of support. This could include scholarships, sliding fee scales, sibling discounts, or special assistance from groups like United Way or faith-based organizations. Options vary by area and provider, so it’s worth asking about available support when you contact local child care programs or your county office.
Next Steps and Support
Navigating child care options and financial assistance can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to apply, there are resources – and real people – ready to help you every step of the way.
-
Start by downloading our Financial Assistance Quick Reference Flyer for an at-a-glance summary of your options.
-
For more detailed or one-on-one guidance, reach out to our Referral Specialist. We’re here to answer your questions, connect you with local resources, and help you find the support that’s right for your family. We may be able to connect you with care that’s a better fit for your family’s budget.
When you reach out to Child Care Aware of Virginia, you’ll get more than just a list of child care providers. Our Enhanced Referral Service does the legwork for you: before we send you a list of providers, our team will call ahead to check availability. That way, you’ll only hear about options that actually have open spots for your child, saving you time and frustration. Ask about our Enhanced Referral Service today!
Stay informed – join our mailing list today!
Whether you are a parent, child care provider, or interested community member, we have a variety of valuable resources to share with you. Sign up today to receive updates on early childhood education in Virginia!