Stearns County has completed a draft of its 2026–2027 Child Care Plan, and community members are invited to review and provide feedback.

The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) supports working families and parents enrolled in 2- or 4-year post-secondary programs by helping cover the cost of childcare. Assistance is determined based on household income, with fees calculated using a sliding scale. On average, the program serves approximately 500 families each month in Stearns County.

While the Minnesota Department of Human Services oversees the program statewide, counties have limited flexibility to set certain local policies and procedures. The Stearns County Child Care Plan outlines these local procedures and priorities.

Although much of the plan follows state guidelines, Stearns County Human Services welcomes public input on the entire document.

To view the draft plan, visit StearnsCountyMN.gov/1136, email HS.Planning@stearnscountymn.gov, or call 320-656-6017.

Public comments will be accepted through Sunday, September 14. Written feedback can be submitted to: Brittany Spah, Planning Coordinator, Stearns County Human Services, PO Box 1107, St. Cloud, MN 56302. Or via email at HS.Planning@stearnscountymn.gov.