Eagle County to recognize May as Month of the Young Child

Eagle County to recognize May as Month of the Young Child

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Sam Markovitz

Early Childhood Coordinator

970-401-0722

sam.markovitz@eaglecounty.us


May 18, 2023 – The Eagle County Board of Commissioners will adopt a resolution proclaiming May as “The Month of the Young Child.” The resolution underscores the fundamental impact of investment in early childhood for Eagle County and its families. 


The resolution will be considered on Tuesday, May 23, at 10:00 a.m. An event with the commissioners and local families is planned to follow at approximately 11:30 a.m. Both are open to the media and the public.


“Simply put, child care work makes all other work possible for Eagle County families,” said Eagle County Commissioner Jeanne McQueeney. “Local government plays an important role here, but everyone in our community–businesses, faith-based organizations, and residents–can all contribute to our future through partnerships and targeted investment in our youngest residents and their families.”


In 2022, Eagle County Human Services invested more than $1.6 million to support early childhood programs, serving children and their families from birth to age five. This included more than $800,000 in early childhood provider support initiatives, over $500,000 in rental and mortgage assistance to our early childhood centers, and over $300,000 in direct support to our community partners. With childcare costs in Eagle County 53 percent higher than the median for Colorado, the continued investment represents vital support for families and the county as a whole.


Approximately 3,605 children ages five and younger call Eagle County home. They and their families are served by 42 licensed child care centers and approximately 375 early childhood educators. Early childhood investment assists in meeting a range of needs required to deliver quality early childhood care. That includes assistance in overhead costs for rent or mortgages which can be several thousand dollars per month for some providers. Funding has also helped Eagle County providers offer higher salaries, bonuses, and hiring incentives to attract and keep qualified staff.


Local child care providers attest to the impact county support has had on their operations. Tangible benefits reported include the ability to hire and retain high quality staff, provide meals for the children, purchase school supplies, and make on-site safety enhancements.

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