By Charles Clifford, President & CEO, Old Colony YMCA

Childcare is a critical component of supporting families and fostering the healthy development of our children. As costs continue to rise, the burden on households is becoming increasingly high, making quality childcare seem like a luxury that only a few can afford. The recent Wall Street Journal article titled "Why Child-Care Prices Are Rising at Nearly Twice the Overall Inflation Rate" rightly points to an alarming concern that is affecting middle and lower-income communities across the nation.

However, nonprofit organizations like the YMCA are actively striving to alleviate these challenges.

Our dedication to maintaining stable costs, providing scholarships, and fostering growth sets us apart as an essential partner in supporting families and building stronger communities. We uphold accessibility to high-quality childcare as an everyday reality. In fact, more than 13 YMCA locations in Massachusetts have strategically utilized Early Education and Out of School Time (EEOST) capital grants to expand services and undergo transformative growth. These expansions encompass not only an increase in available enrollment for children but also the introduction of specialized programs, advanced learning resources, and upgraded facilities. This strategic approach has enabled us to remain open and accessible while other providers had to close their doors. 

In addition to the invaluable support provided through EEOST capital grants, the Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) funding, administered by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), has played a pivotal role in maintaining stability within our childcare system, both pre and post pandemic. EEC's data underscores the significance of C3 funding, as it reveals that the absence of such support would have led to the closure of 712 early education providers, leaving 15,000 children without access to essential care services.

The estimations from the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation shed light on the broader economic implications of inadequate childcare services. The annual losses of approximately $2.7 billion not only affect employee earnings but also contribute to escalating costs, reducing employer productivity, and lowering tax revenues.

Fortunately, C3 funding has emerged as a lifeline for our early education and after-school programs. Through these efforts, YMCAs across the Commonwealth remain steadfast in maintaining affordable childcare costs for all. Our unwavering dedication to inclusivity ensures that no child is denied the opportunity for quality care and early education due to financial hardships.

As a nonprofit organization, our priority is to serve families and communities, rather than maximize profits. We are committed to addressing the childcare crisis by providing solutions that work for families, not against them.