The Family Tree Expands Child Care Access in Baltimore City, Supporting the Opening of 60 New Licensed Family Child Care Programs
Baltimore, MD – The Family Tree’s Baltimore City Child Care Resource Center (BCCCRC) announced today the achievement of a major milestone in tackling Baltimore’s child care shortage: the successful opening of 60 new licensed family child care programs in the city, expanding access by 410 additional child care slots.
This achievement is part of our Growing Opportunities for Family Child Care (GOFCC) program, which is part of a statewide initiative designed to increase the availability of affordable, high-quality family child care — particularly in neighborhoods where there are child care “deserts,” or little or no regulated care.
The need is urgent. Baltimore City is home to approximately 37,232 children under age five, yet there are only enough child care slots for half of them. This gap puts thousands of young children at a disadvantage as well as affecting the economic stability of families and the city as a whole. National research shows clear links between access to affordable, quality child care and increased workforce participation — especially for mothers with young children. Long-term studies also connect early childhood care to improved educational and economic outcomes.
“GOFCC is a powerful solution to Baltimore’s child care crisis,” said Tracy Harris, The Director of the Baltimore City Child Care Resource Center. “It strengthens the workforce by supporting parents, provides more high-quality early learning environments for children, right from the start and builds small business ownership in the city. It is the perfect marriage of early childhood education and workforce development.”
Ensuring access to safe, nurturing child care aligns directly with The Family Tree’s mission to prevent child abuse by supporting strong, stable families and environments where children can thrive. This milestone reflects a deep dedication by the staff as well as a shared commitment from the community for accessible, quality child care in Baltimore.
The Family Tree is grateful to our community partners who made this initiative possible, including Maryland Department of Education, Maryland Family Network, The Abell Foundation, The Annie E. Casey Foundation, The Revolve Fund, The Richman Foundation, The Sherman Family Foundation, and The Wright Family Fund.
About The Family Tree
The Family Tree is Maryland’s trusted resource for families, professionals, and communities working to prevent child abuse and raise healthy, thriving children through education and advocacy.
Contact
Mary Francioli, Mfrancioli@familytreemd.org, 410-916-0576