Posted on April 10, 2026
Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ) supports the full reopening of the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), restoring access for families across the state who rely on child care in order to work or attend school.
"Child care is a necessity for New Jersey families. Reopening CCAP is a critical step toward ensuring that more families can afford care, remain in the workforce, and provide stable, supportive environments for their children.
"CCAP is a vital support that helps families manage the high cost of child care while promoting children’s healthy development during their earliest years. Expanding access to this program strengthens family economic security and supports a stronger, more equitable state.
"ACNJ is encouraged by Governor Mikie Sherrill’s proposed $18 million investment to expand the program and serve more children in FY2027. Continued and sustained investment in child care is essential to ensuring all children and families have the opportunity to thrive.
"ACNJ remains committed to working with state leaders to strengthen New Jersey’s child care system and ensure access to affordable care for all families who need it."
Read NJDHS News Release Below:
Human Services Fully Reopens Child Care Assistance Program
(TRENTON) – Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha today announced that the Department has fully reopened the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), restoring access to all eligible families seeking child care assistance.
“Child care isn’t a luxury for most New Jersey families, it’s a necessity,” Commissioner Cha said. “The Child Care Assistance Program serves as a vital economic lifeline, helping to pay for quality early childhood education and allowing parents to continue their careers. That is why we are grateful to fully reopen this key program. We encourage families to review the eligibility criteria and apply at ChildCareNJ.gov.”
"Child care is a necessary expense that often strains household budgets,” Deputy Commissioner for Social Services Michael J. Wilson said. “By fully reopening applications we are able to provide essential relief to families. This allows more families to work with confidence, knowing their children are in safe, enriching environments. By continuing to invest in this program, we are investing in affordability.”
CCAP provides child care assistance to income-eligible parents who are working, attending school, or participating in job training, ensuring support is available to families who need help affording child care.
“We encourage families to visit ChildCareNJ.gov to learn about the CCAP and review eligibility requirements. When ready to apply, families will be directed to the State’s secure online application system, MyNJHelps, to complete and submit their application,” said Division of Family Development Assistant Commissioner Natasha Johnson. “Families can also connect with their local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies for guidance and support in accessing affordable child care options.”
Families can also check whether they are eligible for Head Start or if their school district offers free preschool for three- and four-year-olds.
New applications are now being accepted due to some families transitioning off the program. Once the applicant has submitted all required documents, the CCR&R will review the application and make an eligibility decision within 30 days.
Additionally, $18 million allocated in the Governor’s proposed state budget will enable the program to serve even more families. The Department anticipates serving up to 77,500 children in FY 2027.
Since 2018, the New Jersey has invested more than a billion dollars in new funding for child care, and, as part of those investments, child care provider rates have more than doubled.
Continue to visit www.ChildCareNJ.gov for information and updates.
