Childcare and early learning are foundational to children’s future success. They help prepare children for school and life, while supporting parents’ economic stability and workforce participation.

The growth of businesses, industries, and the

workforce in our area requires a healthy childcare infrastructure. When parents have access to reliable childcare, they can fully engage in the workforce and support their families as well.

Investing in the education and well-being of children during their first five years is the best way to build broad prosperity and a stronger economy for everyone’s benefit.

The childcare and early learning industry is facing a crisis in Orange County, with a shortage of teachers and childcare spots and a lack of affordability for most families. Low wages and competition from other industries have caused lasting teacher shortages, leading to longer waitlists and lower enrollment.

More than half of childcare centers are likely struggling financially with reduced enrollments and revenue and higher costs, putting thousands more childcare spots at risk. Without enough childcare spots, parents can’t go to work, and more children fall even further behind.

The K-Ready Community Project is working to build a stronger childcare infrastructure by:

• Adding and Expanding Providers in areas with seat shortages, with investments such as forgivable loan grants to expand and open new centers and family childcare homes.

• Supporting Providers and Teachers by offering business services, marketing, and coaching to help providers increase enrollment and profitability. This includes creating a career development pipeline to fill and retain teacher positions.

• Increasing Funding and Advocacy through a childcare contribution program where employers, families, philanthropy, and government share the cost of childcare for employees and families in need and by securing partnerships with business and community leaders advocating for smart childcare policies.