The undersigned organizations have come together to ask for $1 billion over three years for the Building Equitable Futures for Families Act. This much needed funding will immediately improve access to affordable child care by increasing the number of low-income children served in Alternative Payment Programs and General Child Care. 

With good, affordable child care, families can got to work with peace of mind knowing that their children are safe, nurtured and learning. However, the vast majority of families cannot afford child care because the state does not provide enough affordable spaces to support children from the beginning of their lives. 

The California Center on Budget and Policy estimates that there are 1.8 million eligible children waiting for care, 86% of which are children of color. This funding will create a strong start for children and their families by funding thousands of new child care spaces. These child care spaces will have two-generational impact, by both supporting the child’s development and the family’s economic success. Supporting children from the beginning of their lives lays the foundation for a brighter future for everyone: children will be ready for school, their families are able to work and provide for their needs, and our communities grow stronger. 

If we want to close the opportunity gap for children of color, we must invest in a multi-year effort that allow all children to thrive. Providing $1 billion will expand access to affordable child care from birth and supports the whole family moving forward. This is particularly responsive to the needs of many of the state’s low-income families, disproportionately single mothers of color who work in jobs meeting the demands of our 24/7 economy. Child care options must meet their unique needs, which for a majority of low-income parents includes non-standard and inconsistent work schedules. This funding is the key to addressing the inter-generational cycles of poverty by allowing parents to work and create opportunities for their families. This is how we promote equity from the start.  

We respectfully request your strong consideration and approval of one billion dollars to be utilized for subsidized childcare over the course of the next three years. We must ensure we make critical investments in our children and families’ access to childcare services, as we know childcare is the first step to lifting and sustaining families out of poverty.