What is CCR&R? Understanding Illinois’ Child Care Resource and Referral System
Have you ever wondered what CCR&R stands for?
CCR&R stands for Child Care Resource and Referral. Across Illinois, there are 16 community-based CCR&R agencies dedicated to supporting families, child care providers, and communities in all 102 counties throughout the state.
At YWCA Northwestern Illinois, our CCR&R team proudly serves Boone, Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties. Our main office is located at 4990 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, where we work every day to strengthen the early childhood system and connect families with quality child care resources.
For the convenience of the communities we serve, we also have two appointment-only offices at:
- 1255 W. Empire St., Suite #2, Freeport, IL 61032
- 982 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103
All three locations have secure drop boxes available 24 hours a day for document drop-off.
What does the CCR&R’s do?
CCR&R agencies serve as a valuable resource for families seeking quality child care and for providers striving to offer the best possible care and education for children.
Some of the services we provide include:
- Administering the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to help eligible families access affordable child care.
- Maintaining a comprehensive child care provider database.
- Offering child care referrals to families searching for care that meets their needs.
- Providing training, professional development, and technical assistance for child care providers.
- Supporting recruitment and retention efforts to expand child care options within communities.
- Collecting and reporting data to help strengthen Illinois’ early childhood system.
- Connecting families and providers to community resources and support programs.
- Administering grant opportunities for child care providers.
At YWCA Northwestern Illinois, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality care and every family deserves support in navigating their early childhood journey.
Our goal is to connect families, providers, and community resources while helping child care professionals enhance their skills and knowledge. Through ongoing professional development opportunities, quality improvement initiatives, and family support services, we work to improve outcomes for children and strengthen the communities we serve.
On July 1, 2026, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) brought many early childhood programs and services together under one agency. This historic transition from IDHS to IDEC is designed to create a more coordinated and accessible system for young children, families, and providers across Illinois.
The good news for families is that services remain available through the same trusted channels they have always used. There are no immediate changes to how families access child care assistance, referrals, or other supports. Families can continue to reach out to their local CCR&R agency, including YWCA Northwestern Illinois, for guidance and assistance.
We’re Here to Help.
Whether you’re a parent/guardian searching for child care, a provider looking for training opportunities, or a community member interested in supporting early childhood initiatives, the CCR&R team at YWCA Northwestern Illinois is here to help.
Together, we can ensure that children, families, and child care professionals have the resources they need to thrive.
For more information and resources, contact our CCR&R team today, 815.484.9448 or visit click here to visit the YWCA Northwestern Illinois CCR&R services.
By: Lisa Bock, CCR&R Director
