Finding the right child care program may seem like an overwhelming process for many families. United Way’s 2-1-1 understands how challenging this process may be and would like to share a few resources to serve as a starting point. 

Childcaring is a local resource and referral service that can help parents/guardians find information about child care programs that best fit their lifestyle and needs. Childcaring participates in Youngstar, a quality rating and improvement system designed to recognize good, quality child care programs. The benefit of a Youngstar rating is to rate child care programs and to provide thorough information on each child care program based on accreditation, hours, location, assessment history, and other factors.

Childcaring also offers Good Start Grants for eligible families to make child care more affordable or to reduce child care cost. Eligible families must have a gross monthly income below 300% of the current Federal Poverty Level. Eligible families are also required to participate in an approved activity, school, and/or work. Families that qualify for Wisconsin Food Shares are not eligible. For more information, contact Rachele Johnson at 715-301-1800.

Marathon County Social Services can help pay for part of child care cost for parents/guardians who work or are in work related activities. For more information, to apply for services, report changes or ask questions about a current case or benefits, contact the Income Maintenance Center at 888-445-1621.

For additional information on child care programs or other health and human service resources, simply dial 2-1-1 to speak with an Information Specialist, 24/7. You can also reach United Way’s 2-1-1 by dialing 715-848-2255 or 1-800-922-5590. Language interpreter service is available if needed. Uncomfortable speaking by phone? Email an Information Specialist at askus@unitedwaymc.org, or search the online resource database or view publications at www.unitedwaymc.org/search-211-database.