Daily child care can be quite expensive if you don’t know where to look. There are a few resources that can help you find affordable child care options. The Region of Waterloo provides a resource on child care information and options.
The Community Outreach Program can also be a good resource. You can learn more by visiting your local community centre or by calling (519) 883-2290 or emailing communityoutreach@regionofwaterloo.ca.
The Region of Waterloo offers the Child Care Subsidy program to help some parents pay for child care. Also, some programs, including but not limited to YMCAs and some of the recreational Team and Camp programs offer their own private subsidies that parents can apply to. You will need to ask individual programs about subsidy availability and information about the application and qualification process.
Service Canada and Revenue Canada may also be helpful in finding financial help with child care costs. In 2016, the Child Tax Benefit and Universal Child Care Benefit were replaced by the Canada Child Benefit, which is broadly available. Visit this page on the CRA website to find out which child and family benefits you could be eligible for. It is important to note that you have to complete your taxes in order to receive these benefits. The Working Centre offers free tax clinics during the tax season, and individualized help with taxes all year long.
