|
For more than 25 years, the Infant and Child Development Program (ICDP) has provided licensed, subsidized child care. Two locations - one in the Western Addition and another at the Hope VI low-income housing project in Hayes Valley - serve 80 infants and young children every year. Working with the Family Child Care Network, the ICDP shares its philosophy and experience through 17 home-based child care providers. FCS serves San Francisco's most vulnerable and impoverished communities. Ninety-five percent of our client base is classified as "very low" income. As a whole, these clients' average income is 27 percent lower than other neighborhoods in the city. Consequently, the skyrocketing cost of licensed market-rate infant and child care would consume nearly half of the income of ICDP parent-clients. Within the program, infants and toddlers are given age-appropriate learning opportunities including trips to the park, arts and crafts, and other activities that promote healthy emotional and intellectual development. Simultaneously, parents are provided a resource library and on-going workshops to promote unity and family cohesiveness. The ICDP is highly effective, as demonstrated by the continued success of child and parent participants. Last year, FCS budgeted $1.08 million for ICDP, allocating roughly $10,500 per child for food and nutrition, educational support and supplies, and a remarkable 3 to 1 child/caregiver ratio. This year, the agency intends to increase services in Bayview-Hunters Point. Plans for expansion include a capital campaign for an upgraded or new facility at 1030 Oakdale; and broadening ICDP to include a preschool component. These steps are part of evolving efforts to offer the most up-to-date and effective support to families in need. Hours of Care The Hayes Valley ICDP center: Family childcare home hours vary and may include evening and weekend care. To register you child, contact our Enrollment Office at 415-567-2357 extension 113. |
