7 Resources
Statewide organization helping families find quality child care, apply for CCAP subsidies, and access early childhood education resources across Illinois. Illinois Action for Children provides child care referrals, advocates for affordable care policies, and assists families with CCAP applications. Fathers in Cook County can call the helpline or visit actforchildren.org to find licensed providers near their home or workplace and learn about financial assistance options.
312-823-1100 · 1340 S Damen Ave, Floor 3, Chicago, IL 60608
City program connecting families with free or low-cost preschool, Head Start, and early childhood programs across Chicago's neighborhoods. Chicago Early Learning partners with dozens of providers offering full and half-day programs for children ages 3 to 5. Eligibility is based on age and income. Fathers with preschool-age children in Chicago can call 312-229-1690 or visit chicagoearlylearning.org to find nearby programs and apply for enrollment.
312-229-1690 · 4655 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60609
Federally funded early childhood education program providing comprehensive services to children birth to age 5 from low-income families in Chicago. Head Start Chicago offers free preschool, health screenings, dental care, and family support services at multiple city locations. Fathers with children under 5 who meet income guidelines can call 331-264-4295 or visit headstartchicago.org to find a nearby enrollment site and learn about available spots.
331-264-4295 · 1 N Dearborn St, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60602
Chicago-based nonprofit operating Head Start and Early Head Start programs at multiple locations, serving children from 6 weeks through age 5 from income-eligible families. MFS Early Learning programs provide free preschool, infant and toddler care, health screenings, dental checkups, and family engagement services. Fathers can call 312-986-4000 or visit metrofamily.org to find a location near them and learn about eligibility and enrollment.
312-986-4000 · 1 N Dearborn St, Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60602
State department coordinating early childhood programs for Illinois families including preschool, childcare, home visiting, and early intervention. IDEC oversees the Illinois Early Intervention Program for children with developmental delays, Preschool for All, CCAP, and home visiting programs statewide. Fathers who have concerns about their child's development or need help finding early childhood programs can call 833-234-6343 or visit idec.illinois.gov for guidance.
833-234-6343 · 100 W Randolph St, Suite 6-100, Chicago, IL 60601
Statewide nonprofit operating early childhood programs including home visiting, doula services, and Early Head Start at locations across Illinois. Children's Home & Aid serves families from infancy through the early school years with in-home nurse visits, parenting education, and center-based care. Fathers with newborns or young children can call 312-424-0200 or visit brightpoint.org to find the nearest service location and inquire about eligibility.
312-424-0200 · 200 W Monroe St, Suite 2100, Chicago, IL 60606
Illinois early childhood advocacy organization investing in quality programs for at-risk children from birth to age five, operating model sites and policy advocacy statewide. The Ounce of Prevention Fund influences early childhood policy, trains early educators, and runs demonstration programs that serve as models for Illinois' public investment in young children. Fathers and providers interested in early childhood policy and quality programs can explore resources at theounce.org.
312-922-3863 · 33 W Monroe St, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60603