As a social worker (Child Protective Services) low or no cost child care is the difference between my clients working or staying home and continuing to collect TANF. Child Care also provide a safety net where children are seen everyday by mandated reporters instead of spending 24/7 with their potentally abusive and or neglectful caregivers. Child care is usually part of a safety plan for the family. We know they'll call if things are not ok in a child's life.