The shortage of affordable child care isn’t just a family issue—it’s a workforce issue, and it’s one that Rock County knows all too well. On Aug. 25, YWCA Rock County hosted a roundtable with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, bringing together local leaders, providers and advocates to spotlight both the challenges and potential solutions. Claire Gray, Forward Janesville's Director of Policy & Strategic Initiatives, was proud to join the conversation and share data and perspectives we’ve gathered.
That data paints a stark picture. At least 390 Janesville children could not enroll in daycare this year simply because there weren’t enough slots available. Across Rock County, 3 out of every 10 children are on waiting lists, leaving families scrambling for options and employers struggling with absenteeism and retention as parents juggle limited care.
Gray highlighted one of the root causes: wages. Local technical colleges train capable, dedicated early childhood educators, but starting pay averages just $24,000 per year—about half the local average wage and far less than other trades.
The roundtable also put a human face on the numbers, including perspectives about the challenges local teachers face when child care centers close and how the lack of child care can negatively affect those experiencing domestic violence from leaving unsafe situations.
Senator Baldwin pointed to a potential path forward: the Child Care for Working Families Act. The bill would cap family child care costs at $300 per month while creating incentives to recruit and retain workers in the industry. Baldwin, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, noted that chambers of commerce across the country support the measure, a sign that it could attract bipartisan backing.
For Forward Janesville, the issue is central to our mission. Through tools like our Child Care Directory, supported by the Vision Forward Fund, and through advocacy on workforce development, we’re working to connect families with resources while pushing for long-term solutions.
This roundtable was an important step in making sure local voices shape the national conversation. Together, we can build a community where families have access to reliable, affordable care—and where our workforce can thrive.