For more than 150,000 children across Illinois, the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is more than financial assistance: it is a lifeline. CCAP makes quality child care accessible for low-income families, allowing parents to work, pursue their education, and build a more secure future for children.

Yet, despite rising inflation and skyrocketing operating costs, child care centers have not received a CCAP reimbursement rate increase since December 2022. As costs continue to climb and reimbursement rates remain stagnant, providers are being stretched to their limits. Illinois’ CCAP reimbursement covers just 37.4% of the market rate. Child care programs are struggling to keep their doors open, while families face impossible choices between earning a paycheck, pursuing an education, and securing care for their children. 

Additionally, according to a survey of business leaders from ReadyNation Illinois, 92.8% of surveyed executives agreed that “high-quality child care and early education are important to ‘workforce stability and productivity.’” The financial stability of our state depends on reliable child care, the workforce behind the workforce. 

We are calling on Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) to invest an additional $80 million in Fiscal Year 2028 (FY28) to fund a 9% CCAP reimbursement rate increase for center-based providers. This critical investment cannot wait, as child care programs and the families who depend on CCAP are being pushed to their breaking point. 

Take action today for Illinois children and families: Use this form to email Governor Pritzker and IDEC, let them know how increased investment in CCAP can change the lives of children, families, and providers. Feel free to add your own personal story about how CCAP has supported your family or the children you serve.

Act now, and keep our child care doors open!