Child Care Providers Advocate for Funding Amid Rising Challenges
In a significant demonstration of solidarity and urgency, dozens of child care providers temporarily shuttered their programs on Monday to advocate for increased funding to support low-income families and enhance teacher salaries. This event, part of a nationwide initiative known as “A Day Without Child Care,” was organized by the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA) and echoed similar efforts in cities such as Charlotte.
The closures come at a critical juncture, following the cessation of pandemic-era funding that had sustained many child care programs. The providers voiced concerns that without additional support, closures will likely become more common. Ann Devane, owner of A Bright Child Development Center in North Raleigh, stated, “It’s getting worse… It’s not going to be sustainable.”
The financial structure of child care remains precarious, particularly for centers that serve families in need. According to Devane, approximately 70% of families at her center benefit from a child care subsidy program that assists low-income working parents. As she described, “They are 120% behind us,” emphasizing that parents recognize the vital role these providers play in their lives.
Despite this support, legislation for adequate funding continues to lag, leaving many centers struggling to balance quality care with financial viability. The NDWA has called for a 0 million fund to establish a subsidy rate floor and an additional million specifically earmarked for child care teachers. This funding is crucial to reducing financing gaps between rural and urban facilities and ensuring that child care providers can sustain operations while offering competitive wages.
The rallying efforts illustrate the urgent need for political action in addressing child care funding. Donna White, director of Carol’s Care Child Development Center in Reidsville, emphasized the broader implications of their advocacy, stating, “When we fight, we’re not just fighting for us, but we’re fighting for families as well.” White further highlighted that while her center’s families largely participate in the subsidy program, the current rates cover only about half of the true costs associated with high-quality care.
Additionally, the need for improved compensation for child care educators is paramount. Tracy Conyers, director of Kate’s Korner Learning Center in Durham, shared her determination to advocate for educators who feel undervalued. Conyers underscored that by elevating staff wages and support, the quality of care children receive also improves.
The numerous challenges faced by child care providers illustrate a systemic issue that requires immediate attention from lawmakers. As White poignantly noted, “Every child deserves to be in a high-quality child care facility.” Without a fundamental shift in support for child care funding, the future remains uncertain for both providers and the families they serve.
In light of these ongoing challenges, community engagement and policy reform are key to fostering a sustainable future for child care in North Carolina and beyond. Advocacy efforts like the “Day Without Child Care” serve not only to raise awareness but also to push for necessary legislative reforms that can secure the well-being of families and children across the state.
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Editor’s Note: Kate Goodwin serves on EdNC’s strategic council.
