March 29, 2024

Affordable childcare hits rock bottom

The future prosperity of Iowa and the United States depends on our ability to support our next generation. We have hit rock bottom on affordable, high-quality child care and preschool provisions. In Jasper County alone, 83 percent of children under the age of six need child care while their parents are working.

The need for child care professionals is immensely increasing. As a mother, member of the community and an advocate for Save the Children Action Network, I wish to see the Child Care for Working Families Act (S.1806 | H.R.3773) put into action. This bill would expand high-quality affordable child care and preschool programs.

It would help working families afford quality child care. And it guarantees teachers earn a living wage — key to recruiting and keeping exceptional teachers. As the new state legislative session starts, I call Chuck Grassley to promote and fund this bill.

Jessica Balk

Kellogg