“Child care workers earn an average of $13.22 an hour. Early childhood education and care (birth through kindergarten), is so underfunded that many families who need care are unable to access it, and some early educators leave the field because they can’t make a livable wage. This leaves families, providers and businesses vulnerable. That’s why Community Change launched the Day Without Child Care (DWOCC), an annual day of action to put a spotlight on the child care crisis and need for funding for a 21st century child care system.” (Early Childhood Funders Collaborative)
This year, the third annual DWOCC, Family Forward made a significant mark and we’re thrilled to share the highlights of our collective impact. Here’s a snapshot of what we achieved together:
- 22 Providers Closed: Our event underscored the critical importance of child care services by temporarily closing 22 child care centers, making a powerful statement about their essential role in our communities.
- 57 Petition Signatures: We gathered 57 signatures in support of child care advocacy, demonstrating strong community backing for our cause.
- 9 In-Center Actions: Across several locations, we organized nine localized efforts to raise awareness and drive change directly within our communities.
- 8 Cities Involved: Our reach extended across eight cities in Oregon, showing the widespread concern and support for child care issues.
- 2 Community Events: We engaged with the public through two community events, fostering discussions and generating solutions to address the challenges facing child care.
- 1 Press Conference: Our press conference drew significant media attention, highlighting the importance of investing in child care and the challenges faced by providers and families alike.
- 1 National Virtual Rally: Co-emceed by Candice, this national rally united voices from across the country, amplifying our message on a larger scale.
- So Many T-Shirts! Our eye-catching campaign gear helped spread the word and kept our cause visible and vibrant.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and supported these efforts. Your involvement is crucial in advancing our mission and advocating for better child care solutions.
Stay tuned for updates on our Legislative Days where we’ll share insights from recent sessions, and the Childcare Alliance’s ongoing efforts to improve services. Plus, don’t miss the exciting news about the MPAC Early Childhood initiative – a significant step forward in enhancing early childhood care.
Together, we’re making strides toward a future where quality child care is accessible for all. Thank you for being part of this vital movement!
Photos from Events in Portland & Salem
