Application Period Begins for Preschool Open Doors Program

Preschool Open Doors Program.

The Preschool Open Doors program is accepting applications from families needing preschool tuition assistance. Applications received now through March 29, 2018, will be considered for preschool participation during July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019.

To qualify for the program, children must be eligible to enter kindergarten in the 2019-2020 school year (born between Aug. 1, 2013 and July 31, 2014). Children must be five years old on or before July 31 to enter kindergarten. Families may choose any one of the 431 state-licensed preschools. Underserved or at-risk children receive priority consideration for the POD program, and funds are limited.

The program currently serves more than 1,500 children statewide and provides child care subsidies to eligible low- and moderate-income families to pay preschool tuition. 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.

Interested families may request an application from the department’s POD contractor, PATCH, or by 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 March 29, 2018 to be considered during the July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019 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: PODAdmin@patch-hi.org

Eligibility and priorities for POD program selection are detailed in HAR §17-799, which is available online. For more information about other DHS programs and services, click here.