Paying for Child Care

Paying for child care can be a financial burden for many families. In San Mateo County, a number of child care programs exist to support families in need – both formal and informal programs. Each program typically has their own application process and possibly a waiting list. We encourage families to apply for all programs that interest them.   

The San Mateo County Child Care Coordinating Council (“4Cs”) helps families with navigating the financial aid process for many programs. You can contact the 4Cs at info@sanmateo4cs.org or 650-517-1441. 

The 4Cs provides subsidized care (financial assistance to families who meet income and eligibility requirements set by the California Department of Social Services. are available either through: 

1. Child care/preschool centers that have subsidized spaces,
   
   or 

2. Voucher-type “Alternative Payment” subsidies that parents can use in the child care setting of their choice. 

Both types of programs use the same income-eligibility guidelines and sliding fee schedule, as determined by the State (except for federal Head Start). The family eligibility table (maximum household income by family size) is available on the 4Cs site: Paying for Child Care.  

Some private centers and family child care homes in Redwood City offer scholarships or sliding scale fee programs. 

Applying for Assistance 

The ACCESS program, which helps families access child care affordably, is administered by the Child Care Coordinating Council of San Mateo County, Inc.(4Cs). Visit their website to apply. You can apply online or complete the application by hand and submit it to 4Cs via mail, fax or in-person. Their enrollment specialist can be reached at info@sanmateo4cs.org or 650-517-1441. Be sure to ask the enrollment specialist for support in getting a list of subsidized programs which match your needs.  

Types of Subsidized Child Care / Preschools in Redwood City 

State Preschool 

State Preschool is a part-day or full-day preschool enrichment program, for 3- and 4-year-old children, to prepare them for school. Parents do not need to be working to qualify for part-day classes, but must be low-income. The San Mateo County Office of Education partners with many organizations to provide these programs. Some Redwood City examples of state preschools are Redwood City School District, Footsteps Child Care, and the Redwood City Child Development Program.  

Head Start 

Head Start is a similar program for very low-income families, funded by the Federal government. Early Head Start serves children under 3 years. Additional health and social services and parent education for families are provided. Izzi Early Education provides Head Start and Early Head Start programs at Redwood City Center, Fair Oaks, and Menlo Park.  Head Start sites serve the Redwood City/North Fair Oaks community.