Childcare Assistance program

This program has met its capacity and is currently closed. Please check back in august 2024 for the fall program.

We directly assist families in Burke County by providing subsidized childcare, allowing parents to work with less fear about the safety, well-being, and future of their children.

In collaboration with the YMCA and Burke County Public Schools, we provide childcare assistance to low income working families in Burke County. We cover the costs for Before School, Afterschool, Summer Camp, and School’s Out Day Camp for eligible students. DSS Parent Fees are also covered by this subsidy if applicable..

What we know

  • Childcare is the second highest expense families incur. In North Carolina in 2021, the average cost for center-based childcare was $9,916. That’s 25 percent higher than the national average of $7,501. 

  • Costs for childcare keep many parents from working. In 2021, 18% of North Carolina’s children lived in poverty, and 28 % lived in families where no parent had a full-time job. Source: 2023 KIDS COUNT® Data Book

OUR GOAL

Lower income working families in Burke County will have access to affordable childcare. Each child will participate in activities to promote learning and social and emotional well-being.

“ i would not be able to have insurance or work at my job without this program. knowing she’s safe eases my anxiety. and i’ve seen her grow in so many ways.”

Madison's favorite thing about daycare is that she gets time to play with her friends after school, especially the ones not in her grade. She has also loved being able to go on trips with her friends during the summer. Madison's favorite part about daycare is that she gets time to play with her friends after school, especially the ones not in her grade. She has also loved being able to go on trips with her friends during the summer. "Ms. Whitney is the best because she braids my hair and I know I am always safe with her."

Having this assistance has assured me that we will have enough money for other necessities in the home. It is truly hard on single parent families. I do not have any family members or friends that could pick her up for me. I would not be able to have insurance or work at my job without this program. Knowing she’s safe eases my anxiety. And I’ve seen her grow in so many ways being around other kids and seeing diversity.

-Amy & Madison , Childcare Assistance Program Clients