A recent report gave me 19,961 more reasons to fight for universal child care.

That’s how many dollars the average Massachusetts family has to spend on child care for one child every year. Nearly $20,000.

It’s almost twice the national average, which is way, way too high already. And it’s over half the median income for a single mother. So if a mom is busting her tail to build a future for her and her toddler, she could be forking over more than half her paycheck. Maybe a family member can help out, like my Aunt Bee did for me. But maybe they can’t.

I’ve got a plan to tackle this issue head-on. My plan for universal child care would…

• Cap costs for every family in America (with half paying no more than $10 a day)
• Ensure access by funding child care centers across the country
• Give child care workers a raise by making sure they get wages and benefits comparable to public school teachers with similar credentials

We can get this done. But it will take a nationwide investment. And we’ll only get there with a grassroots movement. 

Add your name to support my plan for universal child care and say that you’ll fight to make it happen. I’m always honored to fight by your side.

This bold reform would make a real difference in people’s daily lives.

More families would be able to make ends meet by not straining to cover child care.

More parents would be able to finish their educations, or start new jobs, without having to worry about who’ll take care of their little ones.

More small businesses would be able to fill open positions with all those new workers in the mix — lifting up our whole economy.

More child care workers would be able to stay in their field, instead of needing to switch industries because the pay is too low.

And more kids would start their educations with solid foundations. That would pay off for decades to come — in improved graduation rates, in higher incomes, and even in reduced health risks. Every dollar spent on quality early education is an investment in America’s future.

Universal child care would be a win for parents, kids, child care workers, and our whole economy. I’m staying in the fight to get it done. Add your name if you are too.

Thanks for being a part of this,

Elizabeth