Early childhood program advocates ask Congress not to reduce funding

CINCINNATI - The battle over the federal budget could leave some families without the assistance they need to pay for childcare.

There is a big push to urge Congress to keep funding for early childhood programs at the top of its list.

If Congress cuts even just a small percentage of the funding, centers like the Cincinnati Early Learning Center in East Walnut Hills may be forced to cut back on some of its services.

Any proposed cuts could also jeopardize programs for children whose parents pay full tuition at state funded preschools.

Patti Gleason, president of Cincinnati Early Learning Centers, Inc., says they care for dozens of children whose families count on financial assistance for childcare.

Gleason says any cuts to federal programming would be devastating for the families and the community.

"I'm so worried because if our families lose top quality childcare it really affects their ability to keep and look for work," Gleason said.

As the new 112th Congress begins to hammer out details for the overdue 2011 budget, early childcare advocates worry "The Childcare and Development Block Grant" may be on the chopping block.

"Families that are currently making particular income levels won't be eligible anymore or their co-pays will increase. This will make it a challenge for them that are following by the rules and that are working to continue to pay for their childcare," said Laura Heuser, Manager of Child Care Resource and Referral Services at 4C For Children.

4C For Children sent out an email Monday urging parents and supporters to contact the White House and Congress.

4C says programs like Ohio's Step Up To Quality and Kentucky's Stars for KIDS NOW receive millions in funding from the block grant.

Cuts could also force some home daycare centers to shutdown leaving many parents with no place to take their children.

"If then funds come back, there might not be home providers. There might not be quality centers there. Also is that quality might drop in the programs which effects the fee paying clients and also our families who are looking for childcare assistance," Gleason said.

Heuser says keeping children a top priority will pay off in the long run.

"Every dollar that we invest now in early childhood will just help those children be prepared to succeed in school and life. It's impactful for the families to work. It's impactful for the providers to be able to offer quality care for the end result for those children being ready to succeed," Heuser explained.

The federal government is currently operating under a continuing resolution until March 4, which continues to fund federal programs at the 2010 funding levels.

4C For Children says there isn't much time for supporters to contact their representative.

If you are interested in sharing your opinion, visit www.4Cforchildren.org or www.capwiz.com .

You can also leave a comment at the White House comment line at 1-202-456-1111.