Child care costs rate as one of the biggest expenses for working families. For a family that’s Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed (ALICE), child care can take as much as 20% of their monthly survival budget. Our partnership with Child Care Network is helping families deal with these expenses and build a better life:
Maggie is the loving mother of five children. Their lives have not been easy. At times they endured the trauma of homelessness, abuse, and addiction. As a result, some of her children are learning to cope through behavioral challenges. However, Maggie is determined to create a better life for her family. With the help of Child Care Network’s Family Support Program, Maggie’s family achieved many victories. Her children engaged in a quality care program where they received the consistency and friendships they needed. They also learned to build trust with caring adults. During this time, Maggie earned an Associate degree, increased her work hours and started pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. When the pandemic hit, Maggie needed help to continue her educational and professional journey. Funding through United Way allowed Maggie’s family to receive a child care scholarship, creating greater stability in her family’s everyday life. Her children are continuing to receive high quality child care, and Maggie is looking forward to graduating next year.
When ALICE families succeed, our whole community benefits. Stories like Maggie’s can’t happen without your support for United Way. Thank you for making a difference!