Thank You for Joining Our Child Care Benefits Info Session!
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined Starting Point’s recent Child Care Benefits Info Session, featuring guest speaker Director Kevin Gowan from Cuyahoga Job and Family Services.
Over the past year, child care benefits have undergone significant changes in eligibility, processing, and guidelines. These updates have been especially impactful since August, as families began applying for the Early Childhood Education Grant through the Ohio Benefits Portal.
This session was just the beginning of an ongoing conversation. Starting Point is committed to:
- Supporting families and child care providers
- Collaborating with public partners at the local and state levels
- Acting as an intermediary to share feedback and secure support
The turnout was incredible, over 100 child care providers and community partners participated, and we received more than 200 questions! This response highlights the strong need for connection and clarity.
We’re working diligently to provide answers to all submitted questions and will share a comprehensive Q&A soon. Programs that submitted specific inquiries and granted permission for follow-up may receive direct outreach.
Missed the session?
Watch the full recording here!
Who to contact for support...
For Eligibility Questions:
Cuyahoga Job and Family Service directly: cuyahoga-PEI@jfs.ohio.gov
Cuyahoga JFS has set up an inbox specifically for child care programs to contact the agency regarding family eligibility determinations. This will help streamline communication and ensure your questions reach the right team quickly.
Please note:
- This email box is only for eligibility-related inquiries.
- It should not be used to submit family documentation.
- Reminder that families must upload Form 0115 via the Ohio Benefits Portal for information to be shared with you on their behalf.
For Family Documentation/Application Needs:
- The most efficient way to submit documents or applications is through the Ohio Benefits Self Service Portal
- Supporting documentation can also be submitted through the portal.
- To submit applications via email, applications can be sent directly to Cuyahoga Job and Family Services at JFS-Cuyahoga-MIPC@jfs.ohio.gov.
- Submitting applications directly to this email box will avoid any unnecessary delays in processing. Cuyahoga County requests that you only attach one application per email.
For Payment and TAP Support and Questions:
- Ohio TAP System, Direct Contact: https://ohiocctap.info/contact/
- Department of Children and Youth Family and Customer Support Center
1-844-234-5437
Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm
MORE Department of Children and Youth Resources
Review Ohio Department of Children and Youth provider resources, including:
- Visit library of Early Care and Education Stateholder Monthly Meetings with recordings of all meetings with vital information on PFCC changes, payments, etc.
- Sign up for DCY newsletter for up to date information, meeting information and more
- Review previous Tuesday Times for guidance and resources
Policy related questions: childcarepolicy@childrenandyouth.ohio.gov
STARTING POINT IS HERE TO SUPPORT YOU
Contact Starting Point’s Family Services Team at ccrr@starting-point.org or 216-575-0061.
Not sure where to start? Who to connect with? Let us help you navigate.
Together, we’ll continue to navigate changes, address challenges, and strengthen support for families and providers.
