Affordable Childcare
Dear Editor: Are you concerned about childcare in Sitka? Attend the Annual Sitka Health Summit Planning Day and make childcare a priority this year and beyond.
Accessible, affordable and quality childcare is an urgent need. Many families lack the childcare they need to work and live in Sitka and provide for their children. Parents are being forced to choose between having a job here, or not, due to childcare. It is important for our children to have the quality care needed while allowing our workforce to strengthen our economy.
Although this is a big issue, there is great local energy working to find solutions. The Sitka Tribe of Alaska has completed a comprehensive assessment of childcare needs in Sitka with a focus on tribal family needs. They will soon be sharing the results with tribal citizens and the community this Wednesday Aug. 17, noon, Harrigan Centennial Hall, Sockeye Room #12.
The City and Borough of Sitka has directed the Health Needs and Human Services Commission to take up the issue of childcare. The Early Childhood Coalition continues to look for partners and solutions to address the issue of affordable, accessible, and quality childcare.
We would like to invite you to join in the local effort to find solutions for Sitka’s childcare needs by sharing your ideas at the Annual Sitka Health Summit Planning Day on Sept. 15. The event is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in room 229 on the UAS campus. Please consider attending even if you cannot stay the entire day. Add this event to your calendar and help get the word out too! Thank you for your time and we look forward to seeing you there!
Tori Hay and Kari Sagel, Sitka
Early Childhood Coalition
