Description:

The primary focus is on helping parents locate child care which meets the parents' needs, determining whether a family qualifies for assistance in paying for child care, providing training for those who work with young children, recruiting additional child care providers, and providing consultation on health issues in child care programs.

Families seeking child care may also call the toll-free referral number, (800) 421-4371, and speak to an experienced child care specialist who will offer comprehensive education about:

Child Care options
Child development information
Licensing regulations
Quality indicators
Financial assistance

*Families receive referrals, not recommendations, to child care providers that may meet their identified needs. Un-biased referrals to providers are done by computer selections that meet the needs of parents. SAL Child Care Connection is NOT a monitoring agency and does not endorse or recommend one provider over another. A listing with SAL Child Care Connection is not a guarantee of quality. Referral lists are available by email or mail, but you may always pick up your referral list at our office if you prefer.

During an initial intake conversation, a Child Care Advisor can help answer questions concerning indicators of quality care, average costs of care, and can help develop an action plan for finding the type of child care that meets a family's needs. Information gathered for each family during the intake process is kept on file and is completely confidential.

Hours:

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Intake Process:

Please call or visit.

Program Fees:

No fees for most services. Small fee for training and library. Please call for specifics.

Languages:

English

Eligibility:

Typically (see below for exception), must be currently employed, going to school, or doing TANF activities to be approved for Child Care Connection program.
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Beginning in November 2018, any family that documents that they are experiencing homelessness will be granted a 3-month eligibility period regardless of if they are participating in an employment or educational activity, which is typically a standard requirement for families applying for CCAP. The family must meet other CCAP eligibility requirements, such as residing in Illinois, the age of the children (younger than 13, or younger than 18 with a documented special need for care) and the family!€™s income is within program guidelines.

Handicap Accessible?

Yes

Is Shelter?

No

Date of Official Change:

January 8, 2026

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please call.

Address Listings

Phone Numbers

Legal Status:

Non-Profit