Additional Open Application Begins Today for Preschool Open Doors

The Department of Human Services has opened an additional application period for its Preschool Open Doors program and encourages families to apply between May 1 and May 31, 2017. Applications received during this period will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018.

This program, which currently serves more than 1,700 children statewide, provides child care subsidies to eligible low- and moderate-income families to pay preschool tuition. The program has $11.6 million in subsidies in the 2017 to 2018 year.  

POD aims to provide children whose families might otherwise not be able to afford preschool the opportunity to gain essential skills to be successful in school and in life.

To qualify for the program, children must be eligible to enter kindergarten in the 2018-2019 school year (born between August 1, 2012 and July 31, 2013).  Families are reminded that a child must be five years old on or before July 31 to enter kindergarten.  Families may choose any one of the 433 State-licensed preschools. Under-served or at-risk children receive priority consideration for the POD program, and funds are limited.

Interested families may request an application beginning Monday, May 1, 2017 from the Department’s POD contractor, PATCH, by visiting or calling 791-2130 or toll free 1-800-746-5620. PATCH can also help families locate a preschool convenient for them.

Applications must be received by Wednesday, May 31, 2017 to be considered during the July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018 program period. Applications should be dropped off, mailed, faxed, or emailed to the following: PATCH – POD, 560 N. Nimitz Hwy, Suite 218, Honolulu, HI 96817.  Fax: (808) 694-3066. Email: [email protected].

Family income eligibility limits apply (see below).

Monthly Gross Income Limits

1. Need help finding a preschool? Call 808-839-1988 or go to patchhawaii.org for preschools in your area.
2. Many preschools have wait lists. Call in advance to learn about the preschool’s application process.
3. Talk to the preschool to see if they accept children who are in the Preschool Open Doors program.