IL SB3626

Department of Human Services must implement a Child Care Collaboration Program by July 1, 2024 that combines child care subsidy funds with other early childhood programs (Head Start, Early Head Start, or ISBE-funded pre-kindergarten) to improve quality and access.

Eligible providers must be licensed early childhood centers or family child care homes that receive or are eligible for child care assistance and participate in an existing or pending collaborative arrangement with Head Start, Early Head Start, or state pre-kindergarten programs.

Approved collaboration models include: two or more center-based agencies working together, family child care homes/networks, single providers receiving two types of funding, or Head Start/pre-K programs using child care certificates, with services provided in one location.

Providers must submit applications detailing program enhancements, continuity of care, community coordination, service information, and organizational capacity; approved providers receive annual Department contracts with advance payment based on licensed capacity.

Families in approved programs receive up to 24 months of eligibility matching their Head Start or pre-K program, full-day care regardless of parental employment status, no co-payments, and can fulfill training/education requirements through referred activities.