The California Alternative Payment Program Association (CAPPA) is a non-profit association representing public and private entities that have State contracts to support working families with early care and education subsidies.  Alternative payment programs (APPs) are mandated in each of California’s 58 counties and serve as an integral delivery community coordinating infrastructure of child care to support parents working.  The Association’s mission statement is to advocate for, and facilitate family access to, quality child care, supportive services, and early education and development programs.

     To accomplish the mission, CAPPA:

• Advocates for changes to law and regulations that will further the mission of the Association. 
• Respects and supports the contribution of all parts of the early care and education system with the end outcome of supporting parental choice in securing child care. 
• Educates state and federal legislative/stakeholders regarding the necessity of local public and private APPs dedicated to keeping families working while children are learning. 
• Collaborates with legislative, regulatory, community-based organizations, centers, providers and parents to ensure that working families receive the highest level of support of which they are eligible. 
• Facilitates active communication and interactive dialogue amongst all APPs, county social service agencies, state and federal administrative agencies, centers, providers and parents regarding breaking information, best practices, shared concerns, and continual dynamics of change.
• Serves as a repository of data and information for all stakeholders needing detailed information on CalWORKs, general child care, and need for child care within the state.