95 Franklin Street, Room 449
Buffalo, New York 14202
Phone: (716) 858-8953
Fax: (716) 858-2888
Hours of Operation: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
*Effective October 1, 2025, the Erie County Department of Social Services will have a wait list for those seeking child care assistance, due to funding constraints. This is the first time in more than 10 years that ECDSS will have such a wait list. ECDSS understands that this situation may create challenges for our community's families and providers. ECDSS is committed to supporting its local residents during this transition and will provide updates on related developments. Those with questions are asked to contact the child care (day care) assistance eligibility unit at (716) 858-8953.
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Important Notice for Child Care Providers 4-2022
General Information
Low-income child care assistance is available to employed families who earn 85% of the state median income or less. Parents contribute toward the cost of care based on a sliding income scale.
All eligible families with incomes up to 85% of the state median income or less are able to submit an application for child care subsidy. Parents are encouraged to submit all pending documentation and re-certification applications by the assigned due date, to maintain enrollment in the Child Care Subsidy Program.
Plans offered:
Child day care assistance is authorized for eligible individuals through a variety of programs outlined below. Each program determines method of payment, required paperwork and who to contact with questions and problems.
Effective March 2023, the NYS Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) announced the launch of the CCAP Eligibility Questionnaire to allow parents and caretakers to answer questions related to CCAP eligibility. The questionnaire is available online or by visiting the OCFS CCAP website and clicking on "Do I qualify for CCAP."