Choices for Children was originally funded over 28 years ago in El Dorado County by the State Department of Education, Child Development Division to provide a child care resource and referral services.  Since it’s inception, the Resource and Referral Program has provided a vital link between families and child care providers in our community. In 1980 and 1981 our services expanded to include a Child Care Subsidy Program (Alternative Payment) and Child Care Food Program (CCFP).

 

The primary goal of the Child Care Food Program is to provide nutritious meals to children in the community while introducing them to a variety of foods. As an added bonus, family child care providers receive reimbursement for preparing and serving those nutritious meals.

 

Our Alternative Payment Program administers state and federal funds for eligible low income parents to assist paying for child care services. In 2005, the Legislature added Education Code 8227, which funded the Centralized Eligibility List (CEL).  This legislation authorized one single eligibility list in each county in California.  This  CEL is web based and connects income eligible families to all subsidized child care and development programs throughout El Dorado County. 

 

Through the three distinctive programs - Alternative Payment Program, Child Care Food Program and Resource and Referrals - Choices for Children, El Dorado County, offers a full range of information and services for our community, our families, their children and the people that provide care for those children in particular.

In the county, through direct services, funding, referrals, and training we provide key service and support to a wide variety of clients.

Choices for Children has established partnerships with a variety of community agencies and actively participates in collaborative efforts to provide high quality services to all families. We take pride and ownership in our services and it shows!..