Early Learning Resource Center

Child Care Provider Information and Referral Services

Lancaster County residents can gain access to the area’s early childhood education programs, search for child care providers, and learn about each provider’s Keystone Stars Rating by visiting www.compass.state.pa.us/childcaresearch or contacting the ELRC office directly. Information services are available at no cost, regardless of household income.

Keystone STARS

As you search for quality childcare, reach for Keystone STARS. Choosing the right childcare for your family is a huge decision, but chances are you have to make this decision right away – and it has to be close and not cost too much.

Keystone STARS helps you know what to expect when picking a program.

Child care programs that participate in Keystone STARS meet standards for teacher quality, classroom, and learning activities, working with you to support your child, and managing their program. Programs can earn from one to four Stars – the more Stars, the higher the quality. You know that they are meeting certain quality standards by their STAR rating – it can help narrow your search and get you to the right program faster. Visit www.papromiseforchildren.com and select “Keystone STARS” for more information.

Child Care Subsidies

ELRC provides childcare subsidies to low-income parents/caretakers whose children are under the age of 13 if the parent is working a minimum of 20 hours per week OR attending a training/educational program a minimum of 10 hours and working 10 hours per week. In addition, older children (ages 13 to 19) who are developmentally disabled and unable to care for themselves may also qualify for subsidized care. Parents/caretakers may choose any child care facility that participates in the ELRC program. ELRC pays a portion of the child care cost directly to the child care provider, and parent/caretakers pay a small portion, known as a co-payment, based on family size and income.

ELRC Applications