CSUMB works with many local organizations that help with food, housing, legal advice, health care and more. There are numerous community supports available for parents as well in the Monterey area. If you are interested in learning more about any of them, feel free to reach out to the organization directly. OtterCare is not affiliated with these programs but can provide you with additional information or connection as needed. Learn more below:
Bright Beginnings of Monterey County
As an Early Childhood Development Initiative, Bright Beginnings of Monterey County's mission is to ensure every child has what they need; from the prenatal stage through age eight.
Maternal Mental Health Task Force
Programs such as the Maternal Mental Health Task Force include support groups and advocacy efforts that strive for an equitable system for all.
Child Care
Monterey County Child Care
Early Development Services
- If you are a CSUMB student who are interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to contact the Center for more information (831-582-4550). Access to the CSUMB Child Care Center facility is provisioned to employees, volunteers, and customers.
First Five of Monterey County
The mission of First 5 of Monterey County is to strengthen connections and quality of care for children from prenatal through age five.
Maternal Mental Health
If you are pregnant or have a child under the age of one and you are having a hard time coping, you are not alone. For non-urgent issues, leave a message and you will be called back in 24 hours.
Warmlines
Post Partum Support International Helpline: 1-800-944-4PPD (English and Spanish)
Post Partum Support International Warmline
Monterey County WIC
he Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)provides federal grants to states for supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and
To qualify for WIC, you must meet income guidelines and be in any of the categories below:
- A pregnant woman
- A woman breastfeeding a baby under 1 year of age
- A woman who has a baby or was pregnant in the past 6 months
- A baby up to their first birthday
- A child up to their fifth birthday
- non-breastfeeding postpartum women/parents, and to infants and children up to age five who are found to be at nutritional risk.
WIC serves infants and children up to age 5 and people who are pregnant or have given birth or experienced pregnancy loss. Partners, grandparents, foster parents of young children and working families are welcome at WIC too!
WIC can provide:
- A WIC EBT card to purchase special healthy foods - like fruits and vegetables, milk, juice, eggs, cheese, cereal, whole grains, dry beans or peas, and peanut butter. Information about nutrition to help you and your family eat well and be healthy.
- Information and help about breastfeeding
- Help in finding health care and other services in your area
California Earned Income Tax Credit and Young Child Tax Credit CalEITC and YCTC
If you have low income and work, you may qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). This credit gives you a refund or reduces your tax owed.
If you qualify for CalEITC and have a child under the age of 6, you may also qualify for the Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC).
Together these state credits can put hundreds or even thousands of dollars into your pocket. Filing your state tax return is required to claim both of these credits.
Parenting Connections of Monterey County
Parenting Connections of Monterey County builds engagement of parents and caregivers to help in developing their abilities to nurture young children. This is done through postpartum support groups, play and learning groups, specialty classes, and parenting programs.
Are you a mom looking for help? Call the postpartum warmline at 831-783-5933
Resources for students, faculty and staff
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