Urge Candidates Biden and Trump to Prioritize Child Care During the Coronavirus Crisis

Because of the coronavirus crisis, child care providers face difficulties paying their staff, rent and other expenses. Many will close and for some it may be permanent. While Congress passed a stimulus package that includes some relief for child care providers, it is not enough to address all these challenges.

Already, 51% of American families live in a child care desert, meaning there aren't enough child care slots to meet the need. If child care providers close, there will be even fewer child care slots in the future.

Kids and parents count on child care. Parents are their children's first and best teachers but early learning programs, like child care, can help prepare children to start kindergarten ready to learn.

Child care closings will not only impact children and families, but also the economy. The child care industry contributes nearly $100 billion to our economy each year and supports millions of jobs across the country. Every state and community will feel the effects of these closures. And if child care options aren't available when the economy improves, parents won't be able to return to work.

Presidential candidates must prioritize helping to support this vital industry that millions of families rely on to keep their kids safe and learning while they work.

Sign the petition now to urge presidential candidates to commit to prioritize rebuilding the child care industry to help children, families and our economy thrive.