The DC Child Care Subsidy Program helps DC families pay for the cost of child care. The program supports families with low and moderate incomes or other special circumstances that create a need for assistance to access high-quality education and care in the District.

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) is implementing a waitlist for the DC Child Care Subsidy Program effective Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

Families enrolled in the DC Child Care Subsidy Program will continue to receive subsidies as long as they remain eligible and complete the redetermination process. They may also add siblings to their case.

Families that are not currently enrolled in the DC Child Care Subsidy Program may still apply. Families that submit a complete application on or before May 11 and are determined eligible will receive subsidized child care services.

Families can complete the application online or in person at the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) or an authorized Level II child care provider facility. Additionally, families experiencing homelessness may apply at the Virginia Williams Family Resources Center.

Click on the boxes below to learn more about the waitlist. For questions, email [email protected].