Child Care Resource and Referral Services (CCRS)

How they support families: CCRS agencies are local or statewide organizations that act as a hub for child care information and support. They assist families by:

• Providing referrals: Connecting families with child care providers that meet their specific needs and preferences.
• Offering financial assistance information: Guiding families through state and federal programs that can help cover child care costs, such as the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).
• Educating on quality care: Providing resources and guidance on how to identify high-quality child care settings.
• Supporting providers: Many CCRS agencies also work with child care providers to improve quality, offer training, and help them navigate regulations.

For more information:
Since CCRS agencies are often state or local programs, it's best to search for your specific state or county's CCRS. For example, in Illinois, you might find information at:
Child Care Resource Service (Illinois): https://ccrs.illinois.edu/

How do I get started?
1. Enrollment must first be confirmed with Little Legends to receive the application.

What will I be responsible for if approved?
Before First Day:
Enrollment fee: $60 (CCRS may assist up to $50)
Deposit: equal to one week's tuition
Weekly Payments:
Co-Pay: determined by CCRS and divided into weekly tuition
Tuition Difference: LLLC's Tuition Rate - CCRS determined coverage =  You pay!

Child Care Aware of America

How they support families: Child Care Aware of America is a national organization that works with a network of local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies. They support families by:

• Connecting to local CCR&Rs: Serving as a national gateway to help families find their local CCRS agency for direct support.
• Administering military fee assistance programs: Providing financial assistance for child care to eligible military and DoD families.
• Advocating for child care policy: Working at a national level to promote policies that improve access to affordable, high-quality child care for all families.
• Providing comprehensive resources: Offering information on child care costs, quality indicators, and various financial assistance options.

For more information:
Child Care Aware of America official website: https://www.childcareaware.org/
Find Help Paying for Child Care: https://www.childcareaware.org/families/cost-child-care/help-paying-child-care-federal-and-state-child-care-programs/
​CCR&R Search (to find your local agency): https://www.childcareaware.org/resources/ccrr-search/