8. In a family where the parents are undocumented but the child is a U.S. citizen, can the parents apply for child care assistance? If yes, what steps are taken to protect the undocumented parents during the application process?

Yes, the parents can apply for child care assistance. Under federal regulations (45 CFR § 98.20(c)), eligibility for child care assistance cannot be based on the citizenship or immigration status of the parent. If the participating child does not have a federally eligible immigration status, the financial assistance will be paid with state funds.

To protect privacy, information in client files is confidential and only released in limited circumstances. Information from client files may be shared only if the parent has provided consent, there is a court order, or the information is necessary for program administration.