You can’t talk with anyone in the Fox Valley – or anywhere in Wisconsin – without hearing about how child care challenges are affecting families, employers, the economy, and child care providers.

Child care isn’t just a convenience; it’s a cornerstone of healthy child development and a vital driver of economic productivity, enabling parents and caregivers to participate fully in the workforce without compromising their children’s well-being. No parent should have to choose between high-quality care for their children and their jobs.

Providers, parents, and advocates across the state and country will come together to highlight the importance of early care and education on A Day Without Child Care on Monday, May 13. This national day of action is important in elevating the need for affordable, accessible child care and the advocacy efforts needed to advance systemic change.

Here in the Fox Cities, the Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region, the Greater Fox Cities Childcare Alliance, Wisconsin Early Childhood Association, and Raising Wisconsin are hosting a parent engagement session to inspire action and involvement in this important issue for our community on Monday, May 13, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Building for Kids in downtown Appleton. Child care and a light dinner will be provided.

Parents who currently have children in child care and are struggling to afford it or parents who can’t find child care are encouraged to attend and let their voices be heard. Your voices matter. Your experiences shape the narrative. Let us come together to amplify your concerns and advocate for meaningful change. Space is limited, to register click here.

Julie Keller, Executive Director, Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region

The Women’s Fund for the Fox Valley Region is a supporting organization of the Community Foundation and a separate 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Women’s Fund invests in the needs of women and girls through grants, advocacy and education. Since 1994, the Women’s Fund has awarded more than $1.8 million in grants to innovative programs that improve women’s and girls’ physical and mental health, ensure their economic security, promote their safety and enhance their lives.