I Need to Work But Can’t Afford Childcare in British Columbia.

Why does the financial obligations of raising a child feel like it’s out of reach? Children come at an incredibly rewarding financial cost that is known in society. Many individuals or couples continue to raise a family. Yet, parents find themselves contemplating how to make ends meat or hard to pay all the bills. Day to day living costs are exorbitant, leading families to consider options to cut costs out. A common problem for families is not being able to afford childcare but not having the option to quit work. Luckily there are options to consider that can help such as government programs, finding a job that is accommodating to your family’s needs or other community-based options.

Affordable childcare benefit

As per the British Columbia Affordable childcare benefit, it states in order to apply, an individual must be a resident of BC, Canadian citizen, permanent resident, refugee or person in need of protection (British Columbia, 2021).

The reason for applying should be one of the following:

• Working or self-employed
• Attending school
• Participating in an employment program
• Looking for work (only one parent or guardian)
• Living with a medical condition that interferes with your ability to care for your child
• Your child is attending licensed preschool
• You have been referred by a Ministry of Children and Family Development or Delegated Aboriginal Agency social worker.

The information provided for Affordable Childcare benefit is sourced by (British Columbia, 2021).

CCFRI is offered to eligible childcare providers. This benefit can decrease a family’s monthly fee anywhere from $60-$350 a month. For more information visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children/running-daycare-preschool/child-care-operating-funding/child-care-fee-reduction-initiative-provider-opt-in-status

Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative (CCFRI)

This funding is offered to licensed care providers that are eligible. This benefit allows child care providers to reduce parents monthly childcare fee, which is done through the provider themselves. Childcare providers can receive at highest $350/month and as low as $60/month in reduced fees depending on the child’s age and program. All the information on CCFRI is provided by (British Columbia, 2021).

Young Parent Program

Young parents under the age of 25 years of age can receive up to $1,500 per month (while finishing high school), per child in as long as the qualifications are meet. For more information, please visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children/child-care-funding/young-parent-program

Qualifications include:

• Under the age of 25 years of age
• Being resident of B.C.
• Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, refugee or person in need of protection
• Has had a child before or on the parent’s 20th birthday
• Participating in an education program to complete grade 12
• Their child being enrolled in a child care facility operating a Young Parent Program

All the information provided on young parent Program is by (British Columbia, 2021). For more information can be provided in detail