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LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Dozens of people from multiple organizations gathered at the Capitol on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to increase investment in child care.
Organization leaders from Early Childhood Investment Corporation and Think Babies Michigan say parents in Michigan face many challenges. They cited issues such as “childcare deserts,” childcare costs, and fair wages for childcare workers.
They argue that the level of state funding currently available for childcare makes the problem even more difficult to solve.
They believe that dealing with childcare situations allows parents to focus on their work, rather than having to make a decision between “making a living” and caring for their children, and providing childcare services. It claims to be helpful not only to people but also to the workforce in general.
“Every family is affected,” says Rachel McKissick-Harris, leader of Think Babies Michigan. “It’s not just low-income households. It’s middle-wage households that are struggling to pay for childcare. 72,000 children will be lost this year as childcare centers are unable to stay open because they can’t attract and retain staff. many people will lose their childcare.”
Advocates are also calling for funding for “paid family leave.” They say 59,000 parents in Michigan reported quitting or not accepting a job because of childcare concerns.
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