Essex County Perspectives on the Child Care Crisis
Essex County parents, educators, and providers are worried about the current early education and child care system. Their stories reflect the hardships they have faced but also the hope they have for a Common Start future.
Adam G. tells his story as a parent faced with economic adversity: “We ended up in troubled times in 2014, and the only reason that we got into childcare… was because we ended up homeless and… ended up getting a voucher. Before that we were paying upwards around the amount of $500 to $600 a month [for childcare].” Adam’s story reflects a dire situation where he was ultimately failed by the current early education system.
These downfalls of the current system extend to the entire community. For example, Sarah, a Clarendon bus driver, says that “I pay out of pocket for all the cleaning and sanitation products I need to clean my bus… There are so many unknowns, and I fear that I won't be able to make ends meet, and won't be able to put food on the table for me and my family.” Her story recognizes the lack of support during the pandemic and her continuing worries surrounding her own safety and security.
Heather M.F., a parent and the co-chair of Lowell's Special Education Parent Advisory Council, speaks to how a strong education system will help everyone involved, including workers like Sarah and parents like Adam.
She says, “When we see successful young people graduating from high school, joining the workforce, going to college, we need to remember these children got their foundation, their start in early childhood centers, family childcare, Pre K, early intervention, and intensive services. Programs like these are the backbone of a successful child, and the people who deliver it and work in adjacent industries must be funded, paid a living wage, and provided with continued professional development training and support.”
Finally, Sue Todd strikes a chord with many when she says “The child is important, but without the whole family, you don't get the same results.” Sue brings to light the very essence of what Common Start is: a community-changing program that will impact all members in a positive and productive way, ensuring a healthier way forward for all.
What is clear through all of these stories is that Common Start is needed now. Its impact will reach all corners of our community and bring about a more equitable future for all.