Balancing work and family life can be challenging, especially when you’re seeking part-time employment while also needing reliable child care. The rising cost of daycare often feels like a barrier, making it difficult for parents to pursue part-time jobs that could provide crucial income and career flexibility. Fortunately, for families in Oregon, the Emergency Child Care Assistance Program (ERDC) offers a vital lifeline, helping to make quality child care accessible and affordable, even for those pursuing part-time work. This program recognizes the importance of supporting working families and provides financial assistance to eligible parents so they can confidently seek Day Care Part Time Jobs and maintain their household stability.
Understanding Oregon’s ERDC Program: Your Pathway to Affordable Child Care
The ERDC program in Oregon is designed to support families who are working, attending school, or participating in specific job training programs by helping them pay for child care services. This assistance is crucial for parents who are looking for day care part time jobs or need to balance their existing part-time work with family responsibilities. To be eligible for ERDC, families must meet several criteria, ensuring that the program reaches those who need it most.
Who is Eligible for ERDC?
To qualify for the ERDC program in Oregon, families must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Families must reside in Oregon.
- Work or Education Requirements:
- Parents must be employed or enrolled in school.
- In two-parent households, both parents must generally meet this requirement, although exceptions may be made in specific circumstances, such as when one parent cannot provide child care due to a documented medical condition or required supervised contact arrangements.
- This requirement is waived for parents receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
- Need for Child Care: Families must require child care to enable parents to work, attend school, or participate in approved family well-being activities. This is particularly relevant for parents seeking day care part time jobs, as ERDC can cover the hours they are working.
- Child’s Age and Need:
- The child requiring care must be under 13 years old.
- Children aged 13 to 17 may also be eligible if they have special circumstances that necessitate child care.
- Income Limits: Families must meet specific income limits, which are detailed further below.
It’s important to note that the child care provider chosen by the family must be approved to receive ERDC payments. This approval process is separate from being a licensed child care provider and ensures that the providers meet certain standards.
Families seeking additional financial support may also explore the TANF program, which offers cash benefits. Contacting your local ODHS office can help determine eligibility for TANF and other support services.
Navigating ERDC Income Limits: Initial and Ongoing Eligibility
Understanding the income limits for ERDC is crucial for determining eligibility and maintaining benefits. The program has different income thresholds for initial application and ongoing benefits, allowing families to increase their earnings while still receiving child care assistance. This is particularly beneficial for parents who may start with day care part time jobs and gradually increase their working hours.
Income Limits When You First Apply:
These initial income limits, effective as of March 1, 2024, determine eligibility upon your first application for ERDC. To begin receiving ERDC benefits, your household income must be below these amounts, which are set at 200% of the federal poverty level.
| Family Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,992 | $35,904 |
| 3 | $3,775 | $45,300 |
| 4 | $4,558 | $54,696 |
| 5 | $5,342 | $64,104 |
| 6 | $6,125 | $73,500 |
| 7 | $6,908 | $82,896 |
| 8 | $7,692 | $92,304 |
| For each additional person, add | $783 | $9,396 |
Ongoing and Exit Income Limits:
These limits, also effective as of March 1, 2024, apply once you are already receiving ERDC benefits and determine ongoing eligibility. To continue receiving ERDC, your income must remain below these amounts, set at 250% of the federal poverty level or 85% of the state median income, whichever is higher. This higher threshold provides greater stability for families as their income grows, supporting those who are progressing in their day care part time jobs or career paths.
| Family Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,740 | $44,880 |
| 3 | $4,719 | $56,628 |
| 4 | $5,698 | $68,376 |
| 5 | $6,678 | $80,136 |
| 6 | $7,657 | $91,884 |
| 7 | $8,636 | $103,632 |
| 8 | $9,615 | $115,380 |
| For each additional person, add | $979 | $11,748 |
How ERDC Supports Your Part-Time Job Search and Employment
Once approved for ERDC, the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) provides direct financial assistance to help cover your child care costs. This support is comprehensive and designed to facilitate your ability to work or attend school, including those pursuing day care part time jobs.
What Child Care Costs Does ERDC Cover?
ERDC assistance covers a range of hours and activities related to your work or education schedule:
- Work or School Hours: The core hours you are actively working at your day care part time job or attending classes.
- Meal Times at Work: Breaks and meal periods taken during your work hours are also covered.
- Travel Time: Reasonable travel time between your child care provider and your workplace or school.
- Sleep Hours for Night Shifts: If your day care part time job involves night shifts, ERDC can cover sleep hours to ensure adequate rest for parents.
- Study Hours: Time spent studying while enrolled in school.
- Family Well-being Activities: Participation in approved family well-being activities.
Did You Know? Family, Friends, and Neighbors Can Be Paid Caregivers
ERDC offers flexibility in child care arrangements. Your family member, friend, or neighbor can become an approved paid caregiver for your child, providing a comfortable and familiar child care setting while you pursue day care part time jobs. This option can be particularly appealing for families seeking culturally relevant or personalized care.
Understanding the ERDC Waitlist: What to Expect
Due to increased demand and limited funding, the ERDC program currently has a waitlist. While this may seem like a hurdle, understanding how the waitlist works can help families seeking day care part time jobs plan accordingly.
Key Facts About the ERDC Waitlist:
- Waitlist Activation: The waitlist is active due to high demand and funding constraints.
- No Impact on Current Recipients: If you are already receiving ERDC benefits, the waitlist does not affect you. Your benefits will continue as usual, provided you recertify on time.
- Waitlist Placement for New Applicants: New applicants will generally be placed on the waitlist unless they qualify for an exemption.
- Waitlist Exemptions: Certain families are eligible to skip the waitlist, including:
- Families recently or currently receiving TANF or Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS).
- Families referred by the Child Welfare Division of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).
- Families reapplying for ERDC within two months of their benefits ending.
- Families eligible for an ERDC contracted slot, such as Baby Promise and specific Head Start programs. These slots are in high-quality child care settings in specific regions of Oregon.
- Wait Time: Families can expect to be on the waitlist for an extended period, potentially 18 months or longer, depending on funding levels and program capacity.
ERDC Waitlist FAQs for Families Seeking Part-Time Jobs
How Does the Waitlist Work? Can Anyone Skip It?
Yes, some families can skip the waitlist and receive immediate ERDC consideration. These exemptions are particularly relevant for families in vulnerable situations or those transitioning from other assistance programs, potentially enabling them to secure day care part time jobs sooner.
Families Who Can Skip the Waitlist:
- Families reapplying for ERDC within two months of benefits ending.
- Families currently receiving TANF.
- Families currently receiving TA-DVS.
- Families who received TANF or TA-DVS within 3 months prior to applying for ERDC.
- Families referred by the Child Welfare division of the Oregon Department of Human Services.
- Families eligible for an ERDC contracted slot (Baby Promise, Head Start).
I’m Interested in Child Care Assistance for a Part-Time Job – Can I Still Apply?
Absolutely. You can still apply for ERDC even with the waitlist in place. When you apply, you will be screened to determine if you are eligible to skip the waitlist. If you are not initially eligible to skip, you can still complete the full ERDC eligibility process for a thorough review. If you are not eligible to skip the waitlist, you will be placed on it.
How to Apply for ERDC and Join the Waitlist:
You can apply for ERDC and be screened for waitlist exemption through the following methods:
- Visit Benefits.Oregon.gov
- Go to or call your local ODHS office
- Dial 1-800-699-9075
Applying for ERDC also allows you to apply for other benefits, such as SNAP food benefits and the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid), providing comprehensive support for families seeking stability while pursuing day care part time jobs.
What Are the Steps for Applying for ERDC?
The ERDC application process involves three main steps:
- Step 1: Apply: Submit your application online, in person at a local office, or by phone. You can apply for ERDC and other benefits at the same time.
- Step 2: Provide Verification: Submit required documentation, such as pay stubs or proof of income. A program checklist provides examples of acceptable verification documents.
- Step 3: Complete an Interview: An interview is mandatory to receive ERDC benefits. You may complete the interview when you submit your application or schedule it for a later time.
What is an ERDC Contracted Slot?
ERDC contracted slots are specific child care placements that DELC contracts with partners to reserve for children receiving ERDC. Baby Promise and specific Head Start programs are examples of contracted slots. These slots are located in high-quality child care settings across Oregon, ensuring children receive excellent care while their parents work day care part time jobs or pursue other opportunities.
What to Expect While on the Waitlist: Staying Informed
I Was Just Added to the ERDC Waitlist – What Happens Now?
After being placed on the waitlist, you will receive a notification that includes your waitlist number, information about your right to appeal the decision, and resources that may assist you in finding alternative child care arrangements while you wait. Regular communication will be provided to keep you updated on the waitlist status.
What Does My Waitlist Number Mean?
Your waitlist number reflects your position based on the date and time you were added to the waitlist. While it indicates your place in line, a lower number does not guarantee faster access to ERDC benefits. Waitlist numbers are not adjusted as families are removed from the list.
Am I Guaranteed a Spot on ERDC If I’m on the Waitlist?
Unfortunately, being on the waitlist does not guarantee ERDC benefits. The waitlist duration is expected to be lengthy, potentially lasting at least 18 months. When funding becomes available, families will be selected from the waitlist based on their application date.
Once I Am Pulled Off the Waitlist, Will I Need to Reapply?
Yes, when you are selected from the waitlist, you will need to reapply for ERDC. This reapplication process ensures that your eligibility is reassessed based on your current income and family circumstances at the time funding becomes available.
I’m on the Waitlist, But My Circumstances Have Changed – Should I Reapply?
Yes, if your circumstances change and you believe you may now qualify to skip the waitlist (e.g., due to TANF eligibility or Child Welfare referral), you should reapply immediately. Reapplying ensures that your current situation is considered and that you are screened again for waitlist exemptions, potentially accelerating your access to child care assistance and supporting your pursuit of day care part time jobs.
Waitlist Information for Families Already Approved for ERDC
If I Already Get ERDC, Do I Need to Do Anything Regarding the Waitlist?
No, if you are currently receiving ERDC benefits, the waitlist does not affect you. Your benefits will continue as usual. To maintain your ERDC, ensure you renew your benefits on time. You will receive a renewal notice when it’s time to recertify. Reapplying for ERDC within two months of your benefits ending allows you to skip the waitlist during the renewal process.
I Am Approved for ERDC But Don’t Have a Provider Yet – How Can I Find One?
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Information for Families Interested in ERDC
I Need Help Paying for Child Care Now – Are There Other Affordable Programs?
Yes, the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) offers several programs to assist families with child care costs. In addition to ERDC, you may be eligible for other affordable, high-quality child care programs, such as Preschool Promise or Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK). Early Learning Hubs and 211 can provide support in accessing these and other resources.
If I Am Approved for ERDC, Will I Have to Pay Anything?
ERDC is a subsidy program, meaning that while it significantly reduces child care costs, many families still pay a portion, known as a copayment. As of August 2023, the average ERDC copayment was just over $10 per month, and copayments currently cannot exceed 7% of a family’s monthly income. This makes quality child care remarkably affordable, even when working day care part time jobs.
ERDC Waitlist Resources: Get the Support You Need
For further information and assistance, explore these valuable resources:
ERDC Waitlist One-Pager: Provides a concise overview of the waitlist process.
ERDC Family Resource Guide: Offers a comprehensive guide to the ERDC program and related resources.
Contact 211 and Early Learning Hubs:
- 211info: Dial 211 or 1-866-698-6155, text “children” to 898211, email [email protected], or visit 211Info.
- Early Learning Hub Finder: Locate your local Early Learning Hub using DELC’s Early Learning Hub Finder.
These resources can provide personalized guidance and connect you with local support services, helping you navigate the ERDC waitlist and explore other child care options as you pursue day care part time jobs and build a stable future for your family.
