Today, the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Executive Director, Erica Phillips, released the following statement in support of the supplemental funding to help stabilize the child care industry.
“The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) stands in strong support of the efforts made by the White House to secure $16 billion in supplemental funding for the child care industry. We believe this commitment to bolstering child care programs is vital to the well-being of children, families, and the dedicated workforce of early educators, including those caring for children in home-based settings, across our nation.
The importance of child care in our society cannot be overstated, as this essential support allows parents and guardians to work and provide for their families. It is also the cornerstone of early education and child development, setting the foundation for our nation’s future.
The proposed $16 billion in aid is not merely about stabilizing the child care industry; it is about maintaining the critical support we initiated with the passage of the American Rescue Plan. This funding is a lifeline to thousands of child care educators who have faced challenges during the ongoing pandemic. These educators are at the heart of our communities —ensuring the safety, education, and well-being of our youngest citizens.
We call upon all members of Congress to recognize the urgency of this crisis. Ensuring child care is available to American families is vital in supporting our nation’s economy.
NAFCC remains committed to advocating for the best interests of children, families, and child care educators. We stand ready to work collaboratively with lawmakers to secure the funding necessary to stabilize the family child care industry, thus ensuring a brighter future for all.”