The COVID-19 pandemic took a considerable toll on individuals, families, and communities but it was especially pronounced for our nation’s children and the individuals caring for them. During the pandemic, childcare providers struggled to stay open because of reduced enrollment; working families faced difficulty in accessing the care and services needed for their children; and children suffered from learning loss and impacts to their social and emotional health. In addition, we know that these challenges were disproportionately felt by communities of color who already lacked access to resources because of the structural inequities that exist in the early childhood system. To ensure an equitable recovery, local government leaders must prioritize the needs of those disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. 

Join us for the release of our new publication, “An Equitable Recovery Starts with Early Childhood: How Cities Are Leveraging ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funding to Support Young Children and Families.” Hear directly from city leaders on how they are prioritizing early childhood within their recovery plans and learn about strategies and best practices to support your planning.

Speakers

Anna White, Program Manager Early Childhood Success, NLC
Dea Wright, Director, Office of Early Childhood Initiatives, City of Milwaukee, WI
Alexandra Valdez, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement, City of Boston, MA
Patricia Kirkland, Patricia Kirkland, Deputy Human Services Director, City of Phoenix, AZ
Cathy McHorse, Vice President, Success By 6, United Way for Greater Austin