Frequently Asked Questions

My child’s other parent and I are not together, how do we apply?
Option 1: A parent may apply individually if they include their custody agreement in their application. The assistance will be for the days the applicant works and the child is in their custody. 

Option 2: Parents can apply together and we will consider both incomes. We will consider all the days the child is in child care regardless of what day either parent has custody. Family size will reflect two parents.

I already receive CCCAP, can I apply?
The need for financial assistance is great, yet the funds available are limited. The Tuition Assistance program is built to be "last dollar in" -if you qualify for CCCAP we ask you take advantage of those federal funds and allow more families to be assisted. That being said, please feel free to reach out to Strong Start with any concerns.

I already received Colorado Universal Preschool, can I apply?
Yes! Feel free to apply, however we will consider your Colorado Preschool Award in addition to your income when determining your tuition assistance award. Depending on your income, you may or may not qualify. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Strong Start.

I feel like I make too much money to qualify, should I even bother applying?
Yes!  If you struggle to pay for child care, please apply. While we cannot guarantee funding, we will work to assist as many families as possible. If you have any questions please reach out to Strong Start!

How does this tuition assistance work? Who is eligible to receive funds?
This tuition assistance is paid on behalf of the child to the child care center. Parents/guardians submit their financial documents and, based on all income, Strong Start will determine an award to be paid to the center on the child's behalf. Families will not receive the funds directly but rather see the funds reflected in reduced costs at their child care center or preschool. 

I plan to enroll my child into child care/preschool later in the year, when should I apply?
If you plan on enrolling your child into child care/preschool anytime in the next year, please apply for assistance during the Spring enrollment date and note the start date in the application. If you are unsure where your child will be attending, please contact the Strong Start program coordinator at coordinator@strongstartstrongcommunity.org or 970-728-5613 to discuss options.

I missed the application period but I need assistance paying for child care, what are my options?
Strong Start understands that the application period is short and unexpected life circumstances come up. If your family has recently moved to the area, experienced a financial hardship (such as a loss of job),  or otherwise had a change of circumstance,  please contact the Strong Start program coordinator at coordinator@strongstartstrongcommunity.org or 970-728-5613 to discuss options.