A Resource Hub for Families
FOR PARENTS
Empowering you with knowledge, options, and support. Because raising a child takes a village, and access to quality care should never be a privilege reserved for the few.
The Basics
WHAT IS PURCHASE OF CARE?
Purchase of Care (POC) is Delaware's state-funded child care subsidy program. In plain terms: the State of Delaware pays a portion of your child care bill directly to a licensed provider you choose, so you can work, attend school, or train for a career while your child learns and grows in a safe, structured environment.
The program serves more than 15,000 Delaware children every year. It is not a loan, not a voucher you have to repay, and not a benefit reserved for unemployment. It is an investment in working families and the next generation.
A Subsidy, Not a Loan
The state pays a portion of your child care cost. You never have to repay it.
For Children Up to Age 14
Covers early learning, after-school care, and youth development programs.
You Choose the Provider
Pick any State-licensed center or home that accepts POC, including us.
You Pay a Weekly Co-Pay
Based on your income and family size, often much less than full tuition.
Know Before You Apply
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?
Eligibility is based on your family's gross monthly income (before taxes) and your need for child care (work, school, or training). Children up to age 14 qualify.
THE 200% RULE
To qualify, your family's gross monthly income (before taxes) must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level for your family size.
If your income rises above 200% at your yearly review (up to 300%), Delaware offers a 12-month gradual phase-out, so a raise at work won't immediately end your care.
YOU MUST ALSO HAVE A "NEED"
- You are employed
- You are attending school or a job training program
- You are in a Delaware Department of Labor training program
- Your child has a special need (with medical certification)
MAX GROSS MONTHLY INCOME (200% FPL): EFFECTIVE OCT 2025 – SEPT 2026
Larger families qualify at higher limits. A family of 4 earning up to $5,360/month (about $64,300/year) can qualify. See the official DHSS page for the full table up to family size 18.
Step by Step
HOW TO APPLY
Four simple steps. Most families complete the application in under 30 minutes.
You will need proof of income (pay stubs or a letter from your employer), proof of residence, your child's birth certificate, and your work or school schedule. Having these ready makes the process smooth and fast.
HOW LONG UNTIL MY CHILD CAN START?
Once you submit, DSS typically processes applications within a few weeks. You'll be assigned a specialist who confirms your co-pay and authorizes your provider. As soon as your POC is approved, we can enroll your child right away.
Where We Come In
NEXT IS NOW IS A POC PROVIDER
We are proud to accept Purchase of Care across our full slate of programming. When you choose us as your provider, your child gets more than supervision. They get a development pathway built on basketball, discipline, and purpose.
DE Children
Served by POC
Youth in Our
Programs
Accepted
Provider
CAMPS
Our seasonal and summer camps combine elite basketball training with mentorship, academic support, and life skills, all covered under POC.
Learn MoreAFTERCARE
Structured after-school care that keeps your child safe, active, and growing, with homework help, character building, and team play.
Learn MorePROGRAMS
Year-round youth development, AAU basketball, and leadership training that turn potential into purpose.
Learn MoreREADY TO ENROLL YOUR CHILD?
Once your POC is approved, list Next Is Now Youth Development as your provider. We'll handle the rest, from enrollment paperwork to welcoming your child into the family.
Official Resources
DIRECT LINKS
Skip the search. These are the official state portals and resources you need.
Delaware ASSIST Portal
Apply online for Purchase of Care and other family benefits.
https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/DHSS Child Care Assistance
Official state page with eligibility, income limits, and forms.
https://dhss.delaware.gov/dss/division-of-social-services/child-care-assistance/My Child DE
Delaware's family resource for finding and evaluating quality child care.
https://www.mychildde.org/Child Care Specialist
Call 1-800-734-2388 to speak with a specialist about your options.
18007342388A note from Next Is Now: We are not a state agency and cannot guarantee eligibility decisions. Our role is to educate, support, and serve as your provider once you are approved. For specific eligibility questions, contact Delaware DSS directly at 1-800-734-2388.
Good Questions, Straight Answers
FREQUENTLY ASKED
What if my application is denied?
You can appeal within 90 days. Denials are often caused by missing documents, not ineligibility. You can also request a fair hearing through DSS, and we are happy to help you gather what you need to reapply.
Can I switch providers after I am approved?
Yes. You can change your POC provider at any time by contacting your specialist. If you want to move your child to Next Is Now, we will guide you through the switch and handle the paperwork.
What if my child is older than 14?
Purchase of Care covers children up to age 14. For older athletes in our 15U through 18U programs, ask us about scholarships, payment plans, and sponsor options so no one is turned away.
Do I have to pay anything up front?
You only pay a weekly co-pay based on your income and family size, set by your specialist. There is no fee to apply, and you never repay the subsidy.
EVERY CHILD DESERVES A CHANCE
Knowledge is power. Now that you know Purchase of Care exists, your family has options. We are here to walk beside you, on the court, in the classroom, and through every step of the process.
BUILT FOR THE FUTURE. POWERED BY PURPOSE.