FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2022
Media Contact: Katherine Trombetta
417-880-6306 or
[email protected]
Workforce Vibe Tackles the Topic of Childcare and the Effects on the Workforce
The City’s Department of Workforce Development has released it’s latest episode of Workforce Vibe, tackling the issue of adequate, affordable childcare and how the lack thereof has a direct impact on workforce participation. Sally Payne, Workforce Development Director for the City of Springfield, talked with Robin Phillips, CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri about the state of childcare in Missouri.
“Adequate and affordable childcare was an issue before the pandemic, but has since become a critical need in communities across Missouri,” said Sally Payne, Springfield’s Director of Workforce Development. “Missouri lost 10 percent of childcare providers who closed their door during Covid and never reopened. This has caused a tremendous strain on families of young children and contributes to the worker shortage we are now facing,” Payne added.
“The state is using ARPA dollars to try and stabilize the childcare supply, but it’s going to take all of us to solve this issue,” said Robin Phillips with Childcare Aware. “ The community has to rally together and push to get change to happen.”
To listen to the full conversation you can access Workforce Vibe on most major podcast platforms including Apple iTunes and Spotify. You may also listen to all Workforce Vibe episodes on https://cityview.springfieldmo.gov under the podcasts section.
For media requests, contact Katherine Trombetta at 417-880-6306 or [email protected]
###
The Missouri Job Center is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services available to individuals with disabilities. MO TTY users may call 800-735-2966 or contact MO Relay at 711.