If you’re expecting a baby or have recently become a mom, you may be wondering how you’ll balance caring for your child with work, school, or job training.
Childcare is one of the biggest concerns new parents face, and it’s also one of the biggest expenses.
The good news is that if you live in Missouri, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Through the Missouri Alternatives to Abortion (A2A) Program, eligible women can receive support during pregnancy and through their child’s first birthday, including help with certain childcare expenses and connections to additional community resources.
Here are the steps you can take to get started.
Learn What Childcare Assistance Is Available
Many women are surprised to learn that childcare support may be available before they even return to work or school.
Through the Missouri Alternatives to Abortion Program, eligible women may receive assistance with:
- Childcare co-payments.
- Childcare registration fees.
- Certain childcare expenses not covered by other subsidy programs.
- Case management to help connect you with additional resources for your family.
Depending on your circumstances, your A2A provider can also help you access services such as:
- Parenting education.
- Housing and utility assistance.
- Transportation.
- Prenatal care and ultrasound services.
- Food, clothing, and baby supplies.
- Job training and employment assistance.
- Medical and mental health referrals.
Every family’s needs are different, which is why your local provider will work with you to develop a plan based on your unique situation.
Find Out If You Qualify
The Missouri Alternatives to Abortion Program is designed to support women who have chosen to carry their pregnancies to term.
In general, you may qualify if you:
- Live in Missouri.
- Are pregnant or parenting a child under one year of age through the program’s service period.
- Have income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Are seeking support to continue your pregnancy and care for your child or explore an adoption plan.
Even if you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth reaching out. A local provider can explain the eligibility requirements, answer your questions, and help determine which services may be available to you.
Reach Out to an A2A Provider in Your Community
Connect with a participating A2A provider in your community. You can find one here by looking for your county in the search bar.
After you reach out, a case manager can talk with you about your needs, explain the services available, and help you begin the application process. If you’re eligible, you’ll be connected with resources that can help support you throughout your pregnancy and your baby’s first year.
You may also qualify for additional Missouri programs, such as the state’s Child Care Subsidy Program, which helps eligible families pay for childcare while they work, attend school, or participate in job training. Your local A2A provider can help you understand how these programs may work together and guide you toward the resources that best fit your family’s needs.
Missouri Alternatives to Abortion Is Here to Help
If you’re pregnant or a new mother and wondering how you’ll afford childcare, Missouri Alternatives to Abortion is here to connect you with the support you need.
Our statewide network of providers offers compassionate, one-on-one assistance to help eligible women access childcare support, parenting resources, material assistance, housing referrals, transportation, and many other services designed to help families thrive during pregnancy and through a child’s first birthday.
Getting started is simple. Contact your local Missouri Alternatives to Abortion provider today to learn more about available services and begin the application process. You don’t have to navigate pregnancy and early motherhood alone; we’re here to help you receive the support services you need to thrive.
