For more information on these individual programs and services, including basic documentation and qualification criteria, please continue reading below.
Military OneSource
Provides free information, referrals, counseling, and support services to military members, Veterans, and their families. The program offers assistance with parenting, childcare referrals, relocation, financial counseling, relationship support, and non-medical counseling to help military families navigate everyday challenges. Services are available worldwide by phone, online, and through local referrals.
Basic Eligibility:
- Active-duty Service members and their families
- National Guard and Reserve members (eligibility varies by status)
- Recently separated Service members and eligible Veterans within applicable eligibility periods
- Military spouses and immediate family members
Common Documentation Requested:
- Military affiliation or eligibility information
- Government-issued Photo ID (if applicable)
- Contact information
- Additional documentation may be requested for referrals to partner programs
Child Care Aware of America
Helps families locate licensed childcare providers and connects military and civilian families with childcare assistance programs and parenting resources. The organization also administers military fee assistance programs for eligible families and provides information about selecting quality childcare. CCAoA serves as a referral and resource organization rather than a direct childcare provider.
Basic Eligibility:
- Families seeking childcare resources
- Military families may qualify for childcare fee assistance through participating programs
- No eligibility requirements to receive childcare referrals and information
Common Documentation Requested Later by Childcare Providers or Assistance Programs:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Proof of residence
- Military documentation (if applying for military assistance)
- Income verification (if applicable)
- Child's immunization records (if applicable)
Illinois Department of Human Services – Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Helps eligible families pay for childcare while parents or guardians work, attend school, or participate in approved education or training programs. The program helps reduce childcare costs by providing payments directly to approved childcare providers. Eligibility is based primarily on household income and family circumstances.
Basic Eligibility:
- Illinois residents
- Household meets income eligibility requirements
- Parent or guardian is working, attending school, or participating in approved training
- Child receives care from an approved provider
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Proof of Illinois residence
- Income verification
- Employment or school documentation
- Child's birth certificate or identifying information
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
Protects the safety and well-being of children through child welfare, foster care, adoption, family preservation, and protective services. DCFS also provides resources that strengthen families and support children in safe, stable homes. Services vary depending on the family's needs and the specific program involved.
Basic Eligibility:
- Illinois children and families seeking DCFS services
- Eligibility varies by program
- No eligibility requirements to report child abuse or neglect or request information
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Birth certificates
- Court or guardianship documents (if applicable)
- Medical records (if applicable)
- Additional documentation based on the requested service
Illinois Early Intervention Program
Provides developmental services for infants and toddlers under age three who have developmental delays, disabilities, or conditions likely to result in developmental delays. Services may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, developmental therapy, and family education. The program focuses on helping young children reach developmental milestones while supporting parents and caregivers.
Basic Eligibility:
- Children from birth through age three
- Child has a qualifying developmental delay or diagnosed condition
- Illinois resident
Common Documentation Requested:
- Child's birth certificate
- Medical records
- Developmental evaluations
- Insurance information (if applicable)
- Parent or guardian identification
Cook County Health – Family Health Services
Provides comprehensive healthcare services for children and families, including pediatric care, maternal health, behavioral health, preventive care, immunizations, and referrals to community resources. The program helps families access coordinated healthcare services regardless of their ability to pay. Financial assistance programs may also be available for eligible patients.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families seeking healthcare services
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- No eligibility requirements to request information or schedule services
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Insurance information (if applicable)
- Proof of residence (if applicable)
- Medical records (if applicable)
- Income verification for financial assistance programs
ChildCare Network of Evanston
Helps families locate quality childcare providers and early childhood education programs throughout Cook County. The organization also provides referrals to financial assistance programs, parenting resources, and professional development opportunities for childcare providers. Services focus on helping families find childcare that meets their individual needs.
Basic Eligibility:
- Families seeking childcare information or referrals
- No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
- Individual childcare providers and assistance programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
Common Documentation Requested Later by Childcare Providers or Assistance Programs:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Proof of residence
- Income verification (if applicable)
- Child's immunization records
- Child's birth certificate
Illinois Action for Children
Illinois Action for Children helps families access affordable childcare, early childhood education, parenting resources, and child development programs. The organization administers childcare referrals, assists eligible families with childcare financial assistance, and provides educational resources that promote healthy child development. Services are available through community partnerships across Illinois.
Basic Eligibility:
- Families seeking childcare or parenting resources
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Income verification
- Employment or school documentation
- Child's birth certificate
- Proof of residence
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
Provides a wide range of family support services, including counseling, parenting education, adoption services, emergency assistance, and connections to childcare and community resources. Programs are designed to strengthen families, promote child well-being, and provide support during times of financial or personal hardship. Many services are available regardless of religious affiliation.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families seeking supportive services
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Proof of residence
- Income verification (if applicable)
- Child's birth certificate (if applicable)
- Documentation related to the requested service
Metropolitan Family Services
Provides counseling, parenting education, youth development, early childhood education, caregiver support, and family strengthening services throughout the Chicago area. Programs are designed to improve family stability, support healthy child development, and connect families with additional community resources. Services are available through multiple regional community centers.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families seeking family support services
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Proof of residence
- Income verification (if applicable)
- Child's birth certificate (if applicable)
- Documentation related to the requested service
YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
Provides licensed childcare, preschool programs, before- and after-school care, summer camps, and family support programs for children of all ages. YMCA programs promote healthy development, academic success, and youth engagement while supporting working families through reliable childcare services. Program availability varies by YMCA location.
Basic Eligibility:
- Families seeking childcare or youth programs
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- Financial assistance may be available for eligible families
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Child's birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Emergency contact information
- Income verification (for financial assistance)
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
Provides early childhood education, family support services, workforce development, and programs that promote economic stability for women and families. Early learning programs help prepare young children for school while supporting parents through education and community resources. Additional services vary by program location.
Basic Eligibility:
- Families seeking early childhood education or family support services
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- No eligibility requirements to receive information and referrals
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Child's birth certificate
- Proof of residence
- Income verification (if applicable)
- Immunization records
Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford
Provides early intervention services, autism services, pediatric therapy, disability support, and family education programs for children and adults with disabilities. The organization works closely with families to improve developmental outcomes and increase independence through individualized services and community support. Programs vary depending on age, diagnosis, and funding availability.
Basic Eligibility:
- Children or adults seeking disability-related services
- Individual programs maintain their own eligibility requirements
- Eligibility varies depending on the specific service provided
Common Documentation Requested:
- Government-issued Photo ID (parent or guardian)
- Child's birth certificate
- Medical records
- Developmental evaluations
- Insurance information (if applicable)
- Referral from a healthcare provider (when applicable)
If you have further questions regarding these services, please contact our main office at 312.433.6010 and select Menu Option 4 to speak with a representative who can assist you with navigating this issue.
