Middlesex County Hosts HSAC Policy Summit to Address Childcare Affordability and Access

*For photos, click here*

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - As families across New Jersey continue to navigate the rising cost and limited availability of childcare, Middlesex County's Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) convened government officials, childcare advocates, service providers, and community leaders on Monday, September 14, for the third annual Middlesex County HSAC Policy Summit: Childcare Affordability and Access at the ECSNJ Professional Conference Center in Piscataway.

The summit examined the current childcare landscape in New Jersey, including the financial and logistical barriers that can prevent families from accessing care. Speakers and panelists discussed current legislation, initiatives, and funding opportunities, while exploring strategies to expand affordable, high-quality childcare for all families - including children with disabilities and those living in childcare deserts. Discussions also highlighted the long-term benefits of early childhood education and the critical role childcare plays in strengthening New Jersey's workforce and economy.

The program featured remarks from Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios, HSAC Chair Robert LaForgia, and Robert Zucker, Partner at Winning Strategies Washington. Presentations were also delivered by Sharon Levine, Start Strong NJ Campaign Director, and Winifred Smith-Jenkins, Start Strong Co-Chair and Director of Early Childhood & Policy and Advocacy at Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ). The summit concluded with a panel discussion featuring early childhood and childcare leaders from the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER), Rutgers Center for Women and Work, Community Child Care Solutions (CCCS), and the YMCA of Metuchen Edison and South Amboy (MEWSA).

"The rising cost of childcare has placed a tremendous financial strain on working families across the nation, including right here in Middlesex County," said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. "Today's conversations underscored that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Families face different challenges and barriers, and our approach must reflect those diverse needs. I commend today's speakers, panelists, and community partners for coming together to identify meaningful solutions that can lead to lasting change for children, families, and our communities."

"Every family should have access to high-quality childcare, and through collaboration, we can help make that a reality," said Middlesex County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Chair of the Community Services Committee. "This year's summit demonstrated the importance of bringing together the organizations and systems that support children and families to better understand their needs, connect them with available resources, and identify where additional support is needed. By working together, we can strengthen the network of services available to our residents and help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive."

Attendees also had the opportunity to connect with local organizations and learn about available resources at information tables hosted by representatives from the Middlesex County Department of Education, Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ), Start Strong NJ, Community Child Care Solutions (CCCS), New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children, Rutgers Center for Women and Work, Grow NJ Kids, YMCA of MEWSA, United Way of Central Jersey, and REPLENISH.

The childcare challenges facing New Jersey families extend beyond affordability and availability, affecting parents' ability to work, children's development, and the strength of the state's workforce. Through the Human Services Advisory Council and its partnerships with community organizations, Middlesex County continues to bring stakeholders together to identify challenges, connect residents with resources, and advance solutions that improve the quality of life for children and families.

For more information on resources and services, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov.

###