PROVIDERS, PARENTS LIKE PROGRAM

Parents and child-care providers have many good things to say about the Division of Family Services Income Maintenance Program but say there's always room for improvement.

Many of the child-care providers in Cape Girardeau accept children enrolled in the program, which pays a portion of the child-care costs for eligible parents. Providers said the program is helpful for everyone involved because providers get children and parents get dependable child care.

"I built my day care to cater to mothers receiving this type of assistance," said Hakuna Matata owner Mary Crafton. "I think the state is really kicking in to help these mothers who need assistance. It is a hassle in the beginning, because there is about a one-and-a-half month difference between the first day we keep the child and the first check. But it's not really all that bad."

Christine Thomas, a mother of three children and foster parent of four, has been a program participant for five years. She has one foster child enrolled in day care while she works in the summer. She said the program has been a great help for her. "I think it's a good thing because it's time for moms to get out and work and take care of their children," said Thomas.

Ophelia Wooden, a full-time student at Southeast Missouri State University, has received child-care assistance for one-and-a-half years. She said she has benefited from the program but hopes parents and providers won't start trying to beat the system.

"I find it very convenient," said Wooden. "It has really helped me since I'm a full-time student and I also work. But I do think it's going to become a problem as the program gets bigger because people will start trying to scam the program."

Some people said demand is high for child care, which helps providers, but working with the government to secure and retain licensing can be a slow and confusing process.

"There's a very big demand for child care, and especially good infant care," said Precious Times owner Herice McClinton. "Sometimes it's a problem as far as getting your money on time, and I think they (the DFS) need to offer classes so we providers can come and get a better understanding of what they want us to do."

Overall, people feel confident that the Income Maintenance Program will continue to grow and help parents as they move from welfare to work. Both parents and providers are hopeful that the program will continue to be well-regulated and focus on the welfare of the children.

"The day-care business is booming since they have this welfare reform and they're trying to put the young mothers to work," said McClinton. "I just hope they focus on who is taking care of the children and make sure that the best possible resources are available for the parents and the day-care providers."