NJ Cares for Kids
Essex County families may be eligible for financial assistance with the cost of child care through the New Jersey Cares for Kids program. Eligibility is determined by family size, employment and/or education hours, and income (click here for NJCK Income Eligibility chart).
To be eligible for the New Jersey Cares for Kids Program, parents present in the household must be:
- Employed full time, a minimum of 30 hours per week
- Enrolled in a school/training program, a minimum of 20 hours per week
- Enrolled in College 12 credit hours per semester (Fall and Spring) and 9 credit hours in the summer
- In a combination of work and school
Household income must also meet the following requirements. Families earning up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level qualify for subsidies. After one year, a family remains eligible with an income up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level. (click here for NJCK Income Eligibility chart) to see if you qualify
Additional requirements:
Children must be under 13 years old (or under 19 if they have special needs) and the child care provider must be a:
- Licensed Child Care Center
- Registered Family Day Care
- Summer Camp or
- School Age Programs
Parents or guardians can call, visit, or write Programs for Parents to receive an application, or download an application and related documents (click here to download NJCK application). While instructions are included, Child Care Eligibility Representatives can provide assistance with the application process. Once approved for a subsidy, staff continues to assist parents with changes and any other areas that might affect their continued eligibility.
Parents: Before applying for the NJCK program, view this PowerPoint presentation, which contains essential information on this program! (click here to view presentation)
For additional information, please call us at (973) 297-1114.