South Carolina DSS launches online waitlist for child care scholarships, tell me about this news in (https://www.wrdw.com/2026/09/28/south-carolina-dss-launches-online-waitlist-child-care-scholarships/)
28-09-2026
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is launching an online waitlist for families seeking child care scholarships, effective October 1, 2026. This move comes following a previous pause on new and renewal scholarship applications for non-protected categories due to funding shortages.
Key details of the relaunch and the online waitlist include:
Eligibility Parameters: Eligible children must be between ages 0 and 5 and not yet enrolled in kindergarten. Funding is limited to a maximum of two children per household within this age range.
Income Guidelines: Initial eligibility income guidelines have been reduced to 55% of the State Median Income (SMI).
Work/School Requirements: Applicants must verify that they are working, attending school, in a training program, or temporarily or permanently disabled.
Co-Pays and Coverage: Depending on family size and gross monthly income, a co-pay may apply. Families with incomes at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are exempt from co-pays. Approved children receive 12 months of eligibility.
Application Process: Once reached on the waitlist, parents are given a strict 15-day deadline to apply via a unique link, submit necessary documentation, and confirm enrollment with an eligible provider.