The Child Care Network is an Organized Placement and Support System for the Care of Children 2 Months to 12 Years.
The Cole-Harrington Child Care Network arranges child care in local child care centers for at-risk children ages two months to twelve years referred by the area Department of Child & Family Services (DCF). Funding is provided by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). EEC licensed child care centers that currently have a contract with their local voucher management agencies are eligible to participate in our network.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is provided for children enrolled through the Cole-Harrington Child Care Network based on need and available space on existing routes.
COST/REIMBURSEMENT
There is no fee for families. The centers complete a letter of agreement to join the Cole-Harrington Child Care Network and then are reimbursed bi-weekly at their current voucher rates by the Cole-Harrington Child Care Network. The network staff works with the voucher management agency to obtain the family’s voucher.
ENROLLMENT
Child care services are open to children who live in towns located in Bristol, Norfolk, and Plymouth counties. Children must be referred from local DCF offices. Children may remain in their child care program after their DCF case closes if the family meets the eligibility and activity requirements of EEC for income eligible subsidized child care. Funding is provided through the voucher system. The child care center assumes full responsibility for the child at this time.
SCHEDULE
Families arrange their children’s daily schedule with the child care center and network staff. The centers in the network are open year round, closing for legal holidays. Centers may close for vacation days. A listing of closings will be provided to families at the time of enrollment. Arrangements for substitute care can usually be provided by the child care network staff with adequate notice.