After November 3, 2023, the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program will close enrollment and introduce a waitlist because of limited funding.
Right now, the ERDC program is still accepting applications from eligible families for child care support. Avoid being placed on a waitlist for ERDC:
Recently, the department that oversees the Employment Related Day Care program (ERDC) announced that they will need to open a waitlist for the program.
This program is a lifeline for families—it keeps parents working and ensures kids get the early education they deserve. It is unacceptable that the legislature didn’t allocate enough funding to even come close to meeting the need. Family Forward and our coalition, Child Care for Oregon, are organizing with parents and providers to secure more funding as soon as possible.
If you have ever applied for the ERDC program, please add your name for updates and opportunities to take action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ERDC program?
This is a critical program to help families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care.
Should I still apply for the ERDC program?
Yes! If you think that you qualify, you can still apply for the ERDC program and avoid the waitlist. Your application will be reviewed, and if you are accepted, you will have 12 months of protected eligibility.
How do I know if I am on the waitlist?
The waitlist is not open yet . They anticipate the families will begin to be placed on the waitlist soon. You will receive official notification from the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) if you are placed on the waitlist.
My application for the ERDC program has been approved and/or I already receive child care through the ERDC program. Will I lose my child care?
If you are already approved or accessing child care through the ERDC program, you are not likely to be impacted.
Why is there a new waitlist for the ERDC program?
Despite record revenue and calls from moms and caregivers from across the state, the 2023 Oregon Legislature did not fund child care at the level we need in order to keep parents working and ensure kids get the early education they deserve. The state budget fell short of sustaining our current levels of access to child care. This funding shortfall will not lead to families being placed on a waitlist for affordable child care. With looming potential Federal cuts to child care, the situation is dire.
What can I do to help?
Join our fight. Sign-up for updates and to join our movement to defend access to child care.