3 Resources
State program helping eligible working families in Iowa pay for child care through subsidies to licensed and registered providers. Fathers can apply through their local DHS office with photo ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income, work or school schedule, and children's birth certificates. Copayments are based on income and family size. Subsidies work with in-home providers, centers, and registered family daycares statewide.
515-281-5452 · 321 E 12th St, Des Moines, IA 50319
Free preschool and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible central Iowa families operated by Community Action of Central Iowa. Fathers can enroll children ages 0-5 through the 16th Street office with photo ID, income documentation, and children's birth certificates and immunization records. Programs include meals, developmental screenings, and family support. Free for eligible families. Polk County sites operate on the school-year calendar.
515-246-6555 · 1801 16th St, Des Moines, IA 50314
Free preschool for 4-year-olds in participating Iowa school districts, designed to prepare children for kindergarten with research-based curriculum. Fathers can enroll children through their local school district with a birth certificate, proof of residence, and immunization records. Programs run on the school-year calendar with half- or full-day options depending on district. Administered by Iowa Department of Education and delivered through public schools statewide.
515-281-3333 · 400 E 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50319