What's Happening?
Smart Start of Transylvania County, in collaboration with Duke Sanford’s Center for Child and Family Policy, has released two policy briefs aimed at expanding child care options for working parents in North Carolina. Supported by the Bainum Family Foundation
and Home Grown, these briefs address the challenges of child care deserts and propose innovative solutions to increase access and affordability. The advocacy focuses on fair pay for early childhood educators, equitable support for home-based child care providers, and access to nutritious food and safe housing for families.
Why It's Important?
The policy advocacy by Smart Start of Transylvania County is crucial in addressing the systemic issues faced by working parents in accessing affordable and quality child care. By highlighting the need for increased public support for home-based child care providers, the initiative aims to improve outcomes for both providers and families. This advocacy is particularly important in rural and underserved areas where child care options are limited. The proposed policy changes could lead to significant improvements in the quality of life for families and contribute to the economic stability of communities.
