San Diego CARES Program

San Diego CARES (Comprehensive Approaches to Raising Educational Standards) provides stipends and other benefits to participants who continue their education and remain working at the same child care program.  The goal of CARES is to increase the quality of child care programs and child care provider retention in San Diego County. 

Participants can earn between $750 to $3,000 per year for completing 3-12 units.  Additional stipends are available for books, permits, and degrees.  A student could earn up to $5,150 in a year. 

Application Process

You must complete the CARES application by visiting the YMCA website  SD CARES website to complete and submit a CARES application.  If you need a College Education Plan, please contact Diane Studinka at dstudinka@palomar.edu or at extension 2208 to set up an appointment. 

San Diego CARES Office Hours on the Palomar Campus:
Do you have questions about how to participate in the SD CARES Program?
Do you need help completing your CARES application?
Do you have questions about how to fulfill program requirements?
Need help with a permit application?
Please come meet with a CARES representative on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (starting September 08) 4-7pm in ST-30

SDCares/CARES on Campus for more information!

Please contact Diane Studinka at dstudinka@palomar.edu or extension 2208 with questions regarding this program.  

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