WASHINGTON,
D.C. – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today joined the National
Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) and other members of Congress at a news
conference to release NCJW’s report on our nation’s child care crisis.
The report, Opening a New Window on Child Care, found that millions of
families are struggling to find affordable, quality child care for their
children. Members attending the news conference also signed a Statement
of Principles developed by NCJW on the critical need for quality, affordable,
and accessible child care.
“We
are all aware of the importance of early childhood development. Children
begin learning well before kindergarten. That is why we must commit
ourselves to provide families who need it with affordable, quality child
care. It is a wise investment for their children’s future and our
nation’s future,” Schakowsky said.
The
report found major hurdles facing families of all income levels who are
seeking child care services for their children. First, access to
quality, affordable child care is shrinking. Second, the quality
of care is often substandard. Third, the cost of child care, even
poor quality care, is exceedingly high. Finally, our nation’s economy
is negatively impacted when women are forced to leave the workforce because
they cannot afford or find quality child care.
Nationally,
more than 50 percent of preschool children are in child care arrangements.
In Illinois, three out of five children younger than six spend some or
all of their day being cared for by someone other than a parent.
NCJW
is launching a multi-year campaign to address the issues raised in the
report. The organization will work with local, state, and federal
officials to increase funding for child care and school-age programs.
In addition, NCJW recommends that standards for child care quality should
be created and enforced, that the public and private sectors work together
to help employers offer workers opportunities to increase child care options,
and that parents have greater access to resources and referral services.
Schakowsky
said, “As a proud member of the National Council of Jewish Women, I applaud
the organization’s effort and dedication on behalf of children and families
nationwide. Together, we can work to bring millions of families quality
affordable child care and peace of mind.” |