Contact:
Andrea Bennett
502-381-1176
abennett@kyyouth.org

Statement by Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

Given tough budget economic times, there are several needs children and families face on a daily basis, and we know the state budget impacts children in a number of ways. However, one of greatest needs is ensuring parents have opportunities to work in order to provide for their families. The Child Care Assistance Program is one of the key ways to ensure low-income working parents have access to affordable, quality child care. We applaud the House for including funding to provide CCAP to more families by raising the eligibility level from 150% of the federal poverty level to 160%. We know this workforce development priority will help parents get and keep their jobs knowing they have access to safe and stable child care. We believe this move is a triple win for kids as it will pay dividends to local economies, families, and the state budget.