Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is the Supportive Services, Inc. Alternative Payment Program?
The S.S., Inc. Alternative Payment Program is a parental choice child care subsidy program that is funded by grants from the State and Federal Government. It provides child care assistance to eligible families residing in Fresno County. It can pay for all, or part, of the cost of child care for children ages birth through 12 years.
Who is eligible to receive child care assistance?
Families must first meet income requirements based on their family size. Second, parents/guardians must have a need for child care based on one of the following: employment, self-employment, school, training, incapacitation of one or both parents/guardians, CPS referral, or “at risk” children.
How do I get child care assistance; is there a waiting list?
Unfortunately, there is a waiting list for services. To be placed on the list, a Supportive Services, Inc. Waiting List Application must be completed and submitted along with documentation of the household’s last month of income (ALL SOURCES including: check stubs, profit documentation (self-employed), financial aid for school, child support, cash aid, disability, SSI, etc.). If you’re a student, your class schedule must also be submitted. If you are a guardian or foster parent, then placement documentation and income received for the child(ren) must also be submitted.
How may I get an application?
You may come into the agency anytime between 8:30a.m. to 5:00p.m., Monday thru Friday, to complete an application. You must bring documentation with you to apply that includes: income information (all sources), guardianship documentation (if applicable), school schedule and financial aid information (if applicable).
What happens after I submit my application?
Once your application is received, it is reviewed for completeness and program eligibility. If the application is complete and you are determined to be eligible for the program you will receive a letter. If it is determined that you are ineligible for the program, we will send you a letter explaining why. Unfortunately, if your application is incomplete or missing necessary information it must be returned for additional information..
How are families picked from the waiting list to receive services?
Families are not pulled from the waiting list on a first come, first served basis. Families referred from Children’s Protective Services are serviced first; families with the lowest income in relation to family size are serviced next.
How long is the waiting list?
Placements are made only when funding becomes available. Therefore, it is not possible to tell how long a family may have to wait before being contacted for placement.
If funding becomes available, how are parents contacted for placement on to the program?
If you are selected you will receive a letter with instructions. Follow instructions very carefully and adhere to all deadlines.
Is there anything I must do to stay current on the list?
Waiting list applications must remain up to date with the family’s situation. If there are any changes in income, family size or your need for child care, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to contact the agency to update their application. Especially important, the application must have current contact information (address and phone numbers). If we attempt to contact you and are unable to reach you, you will be removed from the waiting list.