Colorado parents are facing a childcare crisis as funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, which supported over 4,300 childcare programs in the state, has expired. The state ranks fourth for childcare costs and availability, with 75,000 more children under 6 than available spots in licensed childcare facilities. Rep. Brittany Pettersen visited Beautiful Savior Lutheran School, an early learning center supported by ARPA, to discuss solutions to the issue. The number of active childcare licenses in Denver has decreased, leading to a shortage of childcare centers and educators. Pettersen is advocating for federal legislation to address the crisis, including the Child Care Infrastructure Act and the Child Care Workforce Development Act. Despite the challenges, educators like Sonya Acker remain hopeful that future legislation will provide relief and ensure a brighter future for Colorado’s children. The impact of the ARPA funds expiring highlights the ongoing need for investment and support in the childcare sector, as families continue to struggle with high costs and limited availability.
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Colorado childcare programs seek support as federal funds expire
