Over 35 Years of Strengthening Child Care Access and Quality.
Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) in Oregon was established in the late 1980s as part of a national movement to strengthen the availability, quality, and accessibility of child care. At the time, families across the state faced growing challenges in finding reliable care options, while child care providers often lacked access to training, resources, and business support. CCR&R agencies were created to bridge this gap—helping parents connect with licensed care that met their needs and offering providers professional development, technical assistance, and guidance to improve quality. Rooted in community-based service, CCR&R in Oregon continues to play a vital role in supporting families, strengthening the child care workforce, and ensuring that children have access to safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environments.
Oregon’s Child Care Legislation Timeline
1985: Oregon Commission for Child Care (OCCC) established by the Oregon legislature.
1987: Oregon launches Child Care Resource and Referral system (CCR&R).
1988-1989: First four CCR&R grantees begin services.
2013: Early Learning Council established to coordinate Oregon’s Early Learning
System.
2016: 211Info Child Care Referrals begin.
2020: Find Child Care Oregon (FCCO) launched; reorganization of service areas in response to COVID-19.
2023: House Bill 3070 passed and established the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC).
