Denver Parents Face Looming Childcare Cuts Amid Funding Shortages
Denver, CO — Parents in Denver are bracing for potential childcare cost increases as the city halts new applications for its childcare assistance program. The program’s website cites a mismatch between rising expenses and available funding as the reason for the pause, raising concerns among families relying on these services.
Catalina Gonsales, a parent of two, expressed her anxiety over the cuts. Her youngest child, who is just 2 years old, benefits from daycare subsidized by public funding. Gonsales fears that if these funds were to be cut, it could jeopardize her ability to maintain her job. "That makes me feel very anxious, very nervous," she shared. "If that would happen, I would need to leave my job."
Pamela Harris, the president and CEO of Mile High Early Learning, confirmed that the organization is preparing for potential funding reductions. To adapt, they will be closing one of their centers and integrating affected families and staff into other facilities. Despite the challenges, Harris remains hopeful that the community will continue to recognize the essential role of programs like Head Start in supporting children and families.
For families looking for alternative childcare solutions, Mile High Family Learning offers various resources, and the Denver Preschool Program features an interactive map to help families locate available care options.
As funding issues loom, many Denver parents are concerned about the future of affordable childcare, emphasizing the critical need for sustained financial support in this essential community service.
