Hawaii Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025) — The No‑BS Guide

Last updated: September 2025

— Written for single moms in Hawaii who need clear steps, real numbers, and working links.

This guide is long so you can skim. Start with the Quick Help box. Then jump to the program you need.

Quick Help (do this first)

• Apply for general child care subsidy (infant–age 12) online: Hawaii Child Care Subsidy application portal. Phone for help: 1‑855‑643‑1643. This is Hawaii DHS’s Child Care Subsidy Unit (CCCH), year‑round. (childcaresubsidyapplication.dhs.hawaii.gov, humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• If your child is 3 or 4 (and in some cases 2 starting mid‑2025—see details), apply for preschool tuition help through Preschool Open Doors (POD). For live help, call PATCH POD at 808‑791‑2130 or 1‑800‑746‑5620. Deadlines for the 2025–2026 school year were February 18–April 30, 2025; year‑round intake may open until January 31 if funds remain. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Don’t have a preschool yet? Call PATCH (free statewide child care referrals): 808‑839‑1988. They’ll email you licensed providers near you. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Military families: apply for off‑base fee assistance (MCCYN). Typical max provider cap is $1,800/month per child for Army; you still pay a parent fee. Start at MCC Central. For help, call 1‑800‑424‑2246. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• Language help: DHS provides free interpreters. Call 1‑888‑764‑7586 and say your language. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

What’s new in 2025 (Hawaii)

• POD ran a priority window Feb 18–Apr 30, 2025 for the 2025–2026 school year and posted new income limits (see table below). Max monthly subsidy remains up to $1,500\ast \ast (accreditedpreschool)or\ast \ast$1,200 (licensed). Apply online or via PATCH. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• POD rule updates took effect June 27, 2025 (Lt. Governor announcement): eligibility expanding to include some 2‑year‑olds, income eligibility raised (up to 500% FPL), and co‑pays capped at 3% of income (max $45/month) with flexibility for full tuition coverage for some families. Details will continue rolling out; always check the official POD page when you apply. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)
• Act 203 (HB 692) was signed; portions take effect January 1, 2026 and continue the POD expansion. If you’re planning ahead for 2026, keep an eye on DHS updates. (hawaiinewsnow.com)

How this guide beats the usual search results

• Real, current numbers pulled from official DHS releases and forms you’ll actually use.
• Direct application links, phone numbers by island, and a checklist you can print.
• Two plans for every section: what to do if Plan A doesn’t work.
• Tables you can scan in under a minute.

(We reviewed the top results and saw gaps like missing phone numbers, old income limits, and no Plan B options. Everything here links back to DHS, the Governor/Lt. Governor announcements, ACF, UH, or established nonprofits.)

Quick Program Match — which applies to you?

CCCH — Child Care Subsidy (year‑round, infants through school‑age)

Start here if you’re working, in school, or in job training and need child care for kids under 13.

• Apply online now: Child Care Subsidy application portal. For paper, use DHS Form 911 and email or mail it to Child Care Subsidy Unit, 94‑275 Mokuola St., Room 105, Waipahu, HI 96797; email HawaiiCCSU@dhs.hawaii.gov; phone 1‑855‑643‑1643. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Who qualifies (basics): child under 13 (or up to 18 if the child cannot self‑care); parent must be working, in school, or in job training; two‑parent families must have both parents in an approved activity; child must be a U.S. citizen/national or qualified non‑citizen. 12‑month eligibility once approved. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• How you get paid: monthly by EBT card or direct deposit; or DHS pays approved licensed providers directly. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

2024–2025 CCCH income limits (latest DHS info sheet)

Hawaii sets eligibility at up to 85% of the State Median Income (SMI). DHS’s latest published table (info sheet dated 08/2024 and still posted by DHS in 2025) lists these gross monthly caps:

Source: DHS Child Care Information Sheet (Rev. 08/2024). DHS continues to reference this document as of September 2025. Always verify at application. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

What you’ll need to upload (typical)

• Photo ID and your child’s birth certificate.
• Proof of activity: recent pay stubs, school schedule, or training program letter (use DHS employment/self‑employment forms if needed).
• Proof of income for all adults in the home (pay stubs, self‑employment form DHS‑1273C, benefits letters).
• Proof of residency and, if applicable, court documents for custody/guardianship.
• If using a friend/relative as provider: they must meet DHS background check and health/safety rules. DHS forms for exempt providers are on the CCCH page. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Picking a provider

• Search licensed programs: DHS Child Care Provider Search. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Get referrals (all islands): PATCH 808‑839‑1988 or patchhawaii.org. (acf.hhs.gov)

Real‑world example (how CCCH can look)

• A single mom with two kids (ages 2 and 7), gross income $5,600/month\ast \ast ,isunderthe85$5,867). She uploads pay stubs and school schedule, picks a licensed center for the toddler and an after‑school program for the 2nd‑grader. DHS issues monthly subsidy; she pays a co‑pay plus any difference above DHS’s rate. Expect the award to reflect your income, family size, provider type, and hours. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Reality checks and tips

• The subsidy may not cover the full tuition. You’ll likely have a co‑pay, especially at high‑cost centers.
• Upload all documents at application. Incomplete files slow everything.
• Ask your provider to bill DHS directly if they’re licensed; it simplifies cash flow. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Consider POD if your child is 3–4 (and, under new rules, some 2‑year‑olds). It can stack with provider discounts.
• Call PATCH to find a licensed family child care home with lower rates.
• Apply to Head Start/Early Head Start (tuition‑free if eligible).
• If you’re on Maui and just over the state limit, ask MFSS about the county subsidy (808‑242‑1608). (mfss.org)

Preschool Open Doors (POD) — preschool tuition help

This is Hawaii’s preschool subsidy (two years before kindergarten). No work requirement for parents.

• Apply online at the DHS portal or via PATCH POD: 808‑791‑2130 or 1‑800‑746‑5620. For 2025–2026, the priority window ran Feb 18–Apr 30, 2025; applications may continue July–January 31 if funds remain. Mail/Email/Fax address: PATCH–POD, 560 N. Nimitz Hwy., Suite 218, Honolulu, HI 96817; Fax 808‑694‑3066. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Maximum monthly subsidy: $1,500\ast \ast (accreditedlicensedpreschool)or\ast \ast$1,200 (licensed preschool). Amount depends on income and co‑pay tier. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

2025–2026 POD income limits

Source: DHS press release, Feb 18, 2025. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Rule changes taking effect mid‑2025 (watch this if you were over income)

• Eligibility expands to include some 2‑year‑olds.
• Income eligibility raised up to 500% FPL; co‑pays capped at 3% of income (max $45/month); DHS allowed to make co‑pays optional for some families.
• Allows first‑come, year‑round enrollment.

These changes were announced by the Lt. Governor and DHS. Always confirm the current rule language in HAR 17‑799 and the live POD page when you apply. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)

Reality checks and tips

• DHS gives priority to underserved/at‑risk kids. Apply early in the window and list all applicable priorities (e.g., homelessness, domestic violence—presumptive eligibility can bridge documentation gaps). (ltgov.hawaii.gov)
• Preschool in Hawaiʻi often costs $1,400–$1,900/month. POD reduces that, but you may still have a co‑pay. Budget for the difference. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Apply to CCCH if you’re working/in school and need coverage beyond preschool hours.
• Apply to Head Start/Early Head Start (free) while you’re waiting.
• If you’re Native Hawaiian, check Pauahi Keiki Scholars (need‑based preschool scholarships; awards vary). (ksbe.edu)

Head Start and Early Head Start — tuition‑free options

Head Start (ages 3–5) and Early Head Start (birth–3) are free if you meet income rules or special circumstances (homelessness, foster care, TANF/SNAP). Contact your island program:

• Oʻahu — HCAP Head Start: 808‑847‑2400. Program info: HCAP Head Start. (earlylearning.hawaii.gov)
• Hawaiʻi Island — PACT HS/EHS: 808‑961‑0570; Family Support Hawaiʻi EHS: 808‑326‑7778. (earlylearning.hawaii.gov)
• Maui County — MEO Head Start: 808‑249‑2988 (Maui & Molokaʻi). Info and enrollment updates here: MEO Head Start. (meoinc.org)
• Kauaʻi — Child & Family Service HS/EHS: 808‑245‑5914. (earlylearning.hawaii.gov)

What to expect: comprehensive services (education, health, family supports). Bring birth certificates, income proof (tax return, W‑2s), and any TANF/SNAP/foster documentation. (meoinc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• If you’re over income, look at POD/CCCH and PKS scholarships.
• Ask PATCH to match you with a licensed family child care home with lower tuition.

Military Fee Assistance (MCCYN) — off‑base child care help

• How it works: DoD pays the difference between your provider’s monthly rate and your assigned parent fee, up to the service’s provider cap. For the Army, the provider cap is $1,800/child/month (you pay your parent fee plus any amount above the cap). (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• Apply: Make a household profile at MilitaryChildCare.com (MCC Central). For questions, call 1‑800‑424‑2246 or see the service‑specific MCCYN page (Navy/USMC/AF have their own forms and caps). (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Get on the on‑base CDC waitlist while you use short‑term care.
• Use CCCH if you meet Hawaii’s rules; families can sometimes braid supports as situations change.

College student‑parents in Hawaiʻi — campus child care and aid

• UH Mānoa Children’s Center has a CCAMPIS grant (federal) that helps eligible student‑parents pay for on‑campus care; check current status and cycles here: UHMCC CCAMPIS. (manoa.hawaii.edu)
• Honolulu CC Keiki Hauʻoli Children’s Center posts semester tuition (for reference): Preschool full‑time $3,820/semester\ast \ast ;Infant/Toddler\ast \ast$5,200/semester (2024–2025). Students often combine CCCH/POD/PKS to reduce costs. (honolulu.hawaii.edu)
• Leeward CC Children’s Center accepts CCCH/POD/PKS; call 808‑455‑0488 for enrollment. (leeward.hawaii.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

• Use CCCH (year‑round) plus part‑time schedules. Ask campus child care about waitlists and any student aid tied to FAFSA.

Other help that single moms actually use

• Pauahi Keiki Scholars (Native Hawaiian, need‑based): annual deadline typically Dec 1 for the next school year (e.g., 2025–26 cycle closed Dec 1, 2024). Awards vary; can be combined with POD/CCCH. (ksbe.edu)
• Maui County Childcare Subsidy (MFSS): if you’re over state limits, ask about Maui’s local subsidy at 808‑242‑1608. (mfss.org)
• Free referrals to licensed providers: PATCH 808‑839‑1988. (acf.hhs.gov)

Reality check: what child care really costs in Hawaiʻi

State leaders cite typical preschool costs between $1,400–$1,900 per month. Your gap after aid can still be a few hundred dollars. Build a realistic budget and ask every provider about sliding‑scale discounts or sibling discounts. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)

Application checklist (print this)

Sources: DHS “How to Apply,” CCCH forms; POD press releases. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Contacts you’ll actually use (by island)

Sources: ACF Region IX (PATCH main), DHS licensing units, and DHS CCCH website. (acf.hhs.gov, humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting without income proof for every adult in the home. DHS pauses your case until it’s complete.
• Not listing special circumstances (homelessness, DV, CPS involvement) on POD—those can move you into a priority group.
• Picking a provider who can’t meet DHS background check/health & safety rules if you’re using exempt care.
• Waiting for an award before reserving a preschool seat—slots go fast. Ask the preschool about holding a spot while your subsidy processes.
• Missing deadlines (POD priority windows). Put submission deadlines and document due dates on your calendar. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

If Plan A doesn’t work — your Plan B/C menu

• POD denied or waitlisted? Apply to CCCH if you’re working/in school; apply to Head Start; ask PATCH to help you find a lower‑cost licensed program.
• CCCH delayed? Call 1‑855‑643‑1643 and confirm they have all documents; ask about any missing forms. Meanwhile, ask your provider about temporary discounts or part‑time schedules.
• Over state income for CCCH but still drowning? If on Maui, call 808‑242‑1608 (county subsidy). Elsewhere, ask your county’s community action agency or Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network about local scholarships.
• Military family stuck on waitlists? Use MCCYN as a bridge and re‑check on‑base openings monthly. (mfss.org, public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)

Diverse Communities — targeted tips and resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Your eligibility is based on income and care needs, not family structure. You can request a female caregiver for home‑based care if that’s safer for your family. PATCH can filter providers to match your needs. 808‑839‑1988. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a child with a disability: Early Intervention Services (birth–3) are free and can run alongside CCCH/POD. Ask your EI care coordinator for letters that support POD priority. See DOH Early Intervention. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Veteran/active‑duty moms: If a CDC spot isn’t available, apply for MCCYN immediately (provider cap $1,800/child/month in Army; Navy/USMC/AF similar but check their caps). Keep your MCC profile current. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• Immigrant/refugee moms: Your child must be a U.S. citizen/national or a qualified non‑citizen to receive CCCH payments. If you’re unsure of your status documentation, ask DHS or a legal aid clinic before applying. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Hawaiʻi doesn’t have CCDF Tribal programs like many continental states, but Native Hawaiian families can pursue PKS scholarships (can stack with POD/CCCH). (ksbe.edu)
• Rural moms (Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Hāmākua, North Shore): Start with PATCH to map real openings; consider licensed family child care homes (often more flexible hours). Use phone/email to apply—DHS supports remote applications.
• Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, apply the same way.
• Language access: DHS will provide a free interpreter for applications and calls. 1‑888‑764‑7586. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• CCCH (general subsidy): Apply year‑round at the DHS portal; phone 1‑855‑643‑1643. Max income ≈ 85% SMI (see table). Payments: EBT/direct deposit or direct to provider. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• POD (preschool subsidy): Priority window Feb–Apr; may accept July–Jan 31 if funds remain. 2025–26 income limits above; max monthly $1,500\ast \ast (accredited)/\ast \ast$1,200 (licensed). Contact PATCH POD 808‑791‑2130. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Head Start/Early Head Start: Free if eligible. Oʻahu 808‑847‑2400; Hawaiʻi 808‑961‑0570 / 808‑326‑7778; Maui/Molokaʻi 808‑249‑2988; Kauaʻi 808‑245‑5914. (earlylearning.hawaii.gov)
• Military MCCYN: Apply at MCC Central; Army provider cap $1,800/mo. Family support 1‑800‑424‑2246. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• Provider search: DHS Child Care Provider Search. Referrals: PATCH 808‑839‑1988. (humanservices.hawaii.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

Tables you can scan fast

CCCH vs. POD vs. Head Start vs. MCCYN

Sources embedded above. (humanservices.hawaii.gov, earlylearning.hawaii.gov, public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil)

POD income limits (2025–2026)

(See table earlier.) (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

CCCH gross income caps (latest published)

(See table earlier; based on DHS 08/2024 info sheet still posted in 2025.) (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

POD practical deadlines (2025–2026)

Source: DHS Feb 18, 2025 release. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Island contacts (licensing & referrals)

(See contacts table above.) (humanservices.hawaii.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

Step‑by‑step: how to apply online (CCCH)

• Create your account and start at the Child Care Subsidy application portal.
• Upload documents before you submit (pay stubs, school schedule, ID, etc.). Write down your tracking number so you can return to your application if your session times out.
• Submit. You’ll see a confirmation message. Watch your mail for DHS’s letter—either an approval with next steps or a request for more info. Phone support: 1‑855‑643‑1643. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

Real‑world Hawaii examples

• Keala works full‑time and attends online classes. Her 2‑year‑old is in a licensed center, and her 8‑year‑old goes to an after‑school program. With a family‑of‑3 income near $5,800/month\ast \ast ,shemeetsCCCH’s85$5,867) and gets a subsidy that covers most of daycare plus a share of after‑school costs. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Malia’s 4‑year‑old got a POD award for $1,200/month at a licensed preschool. Her co‑pay fits her budget, and she uses a part‑time job schedule to cover pick‑ups. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

10 Hawaii‑specific FAQs

• Where do I apply for CCCH?
  Apply at the DHS Child Care Subsidy portal. Phone help: 1‑855‑643‑1643. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• What’s the income limit for CCCH?
  DHS uses 85% of Hawaii’s SMI. Latest posted monthly caps (08/2024) include: family of 3 $5,867\ast \ast ;familyof4\ast \ast$6,985 (verify when you apply). (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• How long does CCCH last?
  12‑month eligibility once approved, with redetermination annually. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Can CCCH pay my friend or relative to watch my child?
  Yes, if they pass DHS background checks and meet health/safety rules. Use DHS exempt‑provider forms. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• When is POD open?
  Priority window was Feb 18–Apr 30, 2025 for the 2025–26 year. First‑come may continue July–Jan 31 if funds remain. Apply online or through PATCH POD. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• How much can POD pay?
  Up to $1,500/month\ast \ast (accredited)or\ast \ast$1,200/month (licensed), based on your income and co‑pay tier. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• I heard 2‑year‑olds can get POD now. True?
  Yes—rule updates effective June 27, 2025 expand eligibility and raise income limits (with co‑pay caps). Always check the current POD page when applying. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)
• What if I can’t find a licensed provider near me?
  Call PATCH 808‑839‑1988 for referrals, or search the DHS provider portal. (humanservices.hawaii.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
• Is there help for military families off‑base?
  Yes. MCCYN fee assistance pays the difference up to a provider cap (Army cap $1,800/child/month). Start at MCC Central; help line 1‑800‑424‑2246. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• Any scholarships for Native Hawaiian keiki?
  Yes. Pauahi Keiki Scholars is need‑based; awards vary. Deadline for 2025–26 was Dec 1, 2024; watch for next cycle. (ksbe.edu)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Hawaii Department of Human Services, the Office of the Governor/Lt. Governor, ACF (U.S. HHS), and established nonprofits (PATCH, HCAP, Kamehameha Schools, MEO, UH). It’s produced under our Editorial Standards with a primary‑sources‑only approach, regular link checks, and documented updates.

Last verified September 2025; next scheduled review April 2026. If you see an error, email info@asinglemother.org; we’ll investigate and reply within 48 hours.

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, and benefits change. This guide is for general information; it is not legal advice and does not guarantee your individual outcome. Always verify amounts and deadlines with the relevant agency before you apply or decide. We’ve linked each claim to official sources wherever possible and dated those sources. (humanservices.hawaii.gov, ltgov.hawaii.gov)

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Sources used (selected):

• DHS Child Care Subsidy (CCCH) overview, eligibility, and how to apply: application portal, mailing address, phone, forms. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• DHS Child Care Information Sheet (Rev. 08/2024) with CCCH income limits. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• DHS POD 2025–2026 press release with income table, dates, and max subsidy. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Lt. Governor announcement on POD rule changes effective June 27, 2025; Act 203 context. (ltgov.hawaii.gov)
• Act 203 timing context (news coverage). (hawaiinewsnow.com)
• ACF/DoD MCCYN policy references; Army cap $1,800. (public.militarychildcare.csd.disa.mil, childcareaware.org)
• PATCH and DHS licensing contacts statewide. (acf.hhs.gov, humanservices.hawaii.gov)
• Head Start/Early Head Start grantees and phone numbers (EOEL list; HCAP, MEO, PACT/FSH, CFS). (earlylearning.hawaii.gov, meoinc.org)
• UH child care and CCAMPIS status. (manoa.hawaii.edu, honolulu.hawaii.edu)
• Kamehameha Schools PKS page and cycle timing. (ksbe.edu)
• DHS provider search portal. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)

If you need help right now and don’t know where to start, call 1‑855‑643‑1643 (DHS Child Care Subsidy Unit) or PATCH at 808‑839‑1988. They’ll walk you through your next steps. (humanservices.hawaii.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

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