Rule 18-17-4.1 - Parent Application ProcessThe Division of Early Childhood Care and Development (DECCD) accepts applications throughout the year. When funding is available, eligible families shall be served on a first-come, first-serve basis by date of application. When funding is not available, eligible families shall be added to the waitlist.
A. Client referrals from Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Transitional Child Care (TCC), are accepted throughout the year from Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) staff. Referrals for children experiencing homelessness and children involved with the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) are accepted throughout the year from case managers. Families experiencing homelessness may also complete a standard application without being referred by an approved agency.B. Applications must be completed online on the consumer education website. Parents, not providers, must fill out the application; however, providers may make computers available to parents for the completion of the application. Parents may visit any child care resource and referral center to receive technical assistance in applying for child care services. In addition, parents requiring technical assistance in completing the application may contact DECCD.C. A paper application and related forms are available on the Lead Agency's website for Spanish and Vietnamese speaking individuals. In addition, Spanish translators may be available by appointment for Spanish-speaking parents by contacting DECCD.D. The applicant may be the biological or adoptive parent, or a designated guardian serving in loco parentis.45 CFR 98.30; 45 CFR 98.31; 45 CFR 98.33; Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-2(4); Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-4 Revised: May 2023