The Childcare Crisis
More than 20,000 children just in Kent County don’t have quality, affordable childcare available to their families.
Families who do have care are feeling incredible pressure.
Early care and education providers are often paid far less than a living wage.
The childcare crisis is costing Michigan $2.88 billion a year in lost economic activity.
It’s time to do something!
How Can We Fix It?
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Raise Pay for Early Care and Education Providers
In order to make a profit, child care providers would need to charge more than parents can afford to pay. Many providers can’t pay their staff a living wage. See more here.
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Expand Funding To Support Families
To qualify for a childcare subsidy, or scholarship, families have to be at or below 200% of the poverty level which is $39,432 for a family of 2, and the scholarship only covers part of the costs. See more here.
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Support Recruitment, Retention, and Recognition
Create programs that recruit staff from diverse backgrounds, including members of neighborhoods and parents. These programs should seek to support new professionals from start to finish, overcome barriers to the workforce, and elevate their professional status. See more here.