The Child Day Care program works with parents or guardians to maintain employment, participate in a job educational program that will lead to employment, or provide care to children that require protective services.

Do I have to come to DSS to apply for service in person?
Yes, you have to come in to apply for Child Care Services. However, it is best to call DSS prior to coming in to apply to ensure that we have available space and funding.

What happens if I am waitlisted?
If you are waitlisted, we are able to take your information by phone and you will be placed on a waitlist to be served once funding becomes available.

Can I make an appointment to speak with a Social Worker or do I have to come in to apply?
You may call to request an appointment, to learn more about the services available or for more information. You are required to come in to apply.

What is the contact number that I need to call to schedule an appointment?
In Greensboro, the number is (336) 641-2418 or (336) 641-2419. In High Point, the number is (336) 845-3932.

What are your hours of operation?
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

How can I find out if I’m eligible for Child Day Care Assistance?
In order to qualify for services, you must have a need for child care in order to do the following:
-Maintain employment
-Need Child Care for Protective Services or Child Welfare Cases
-To meet the educational and technical training activities that lead to employment
-To meet the developmental needs of low-income children

What documents do I need to bring with me to apply for services?
In order to process your application, the following items may be required:
Valid Picture ID
The day care provider of your choice
Social Security Card(s) for you and your children
A copy of your school schedule if applicable with a receipt showing your account has been paid
A copy of your work schedule from your employer
Verification of income for the past three month
Verification of child support income if applicable
If not receiving child support, you should bring a copy of your lease or mortgage or utility bills

What is the expected wait time to apply in person?
If you have a scheduled appointment, the customer care representative (the receptionist) will notify us. We will usually see you within 15 minutes or less. Please note that the child care application process takes approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Can I apply on-line for service?
No. All applications must be completed at the Department of Social Services.

If I qualify for services, what is the expected time frame from submitting my application to receiving services?
If you have all of the information needed to process your application and you are approved, you will be issued a voucher the same day. If you do not have all of the information needed to process your application or additional review is needed, your application may pend up to 30 days.

How do I select a child care provider?
You may contact the Regional Child Care Resources and Referral at (336) 369-5021 or (336) 369-5020 to assist you in selecting a child care provider. Once they provide you with a referral, you should make an appointment to meet the child care provider. You may also visit www.ncchildcare.net to search for a child care provider or pick up a list of child care providers at your local Department of Social Services

If I have a pending case and need to provide additional information, do I have to wait in the reception line to see someone in your office?
No, you do not have to wait. If you are just dropping off information, you may use the agency drop box located in our lobby outside of the waiting area. Place your information in one of the available BLUE envelopes, seal with tape and date stamp the envelope with the date stamp provided. If you would like to meet with your social worker, please call for an appointment.

Do I have to stand in line if I have to speak with my social worker regarding an ACTIVE or PENDING case?
Social Workers see people by appointments only. You should always make an appointment with your Child Care Social worker prior to coming in. When you arrive, inform the customer care representative that you have an appointment and they will notify your Child Care Social worker.

What happens if I miss my appointment or a deadline my social worker has given me to provide additional information?
Please call your social worker within 24 hours to discuss the next steps and rescheduling your appointment.

If I come in to apply but have to leave before I am able to see a social worker, do I have to stand in line and start the process over or would I be able to make an appointment?
You should call your Child Care Social Worker to make an appointment prior to coming in. When you arrive, please notify the customer care representative located in the Reception area that you have an appointment. Your Child Care Social Worker will be notified that you are in the agency and they will come out to speak with you.

How do I become a Child Care provider?
Contact Regional Child Care Resources and Referral at (336) 369-5023 or (336) 369-5021
OR contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

Why do I have to become licensed in order to be a Child Care Provider?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

What is the timeframes involved in approving a new Child Care provider?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

Is Funding Available to help open new programs?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

What is the North Carolina Quality Rating System?
Contact Regional Child Care Resources and Referral at (336) 369-5023 or (336) 369-5021
OR contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

What is the role of a Licensing Consultant?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

What are the rules for becoming licensed?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/

If I want to run a day care out of my home, how many children can I service?
Contact the Division of Child Development at 1-800-859-0829 or access their website at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dcd/