The New Jersey Department of Human Services has announced that, due to limited funding, the Child Care Assistance Program administered by CHS in Ocean County will stop accepting new applications effective Friday, August 1, 2025. Applications received or postmarked after July 31, 2025, will not be reviewed. State guidance notes that “additional funding is not anticipated for the foreseeable future,” signaling an indefinite pause on new enrollments.

What This Means for Current Families

Families already receiving subsidies will continue to receive assistance so long as they remain eligible, but no new children can be added to existing cases after July 31, 2025.

Urgent Action for Families Who Have Not Yet Applied

If you believe you are eligible and have not yet submitted an application, you must ensure a complete application is received or postmarked no later than July 31, 2025 to be considered under current funding.

How to Apply

Download the application and instructions below: