Tucson, Ariz. – Today, Stand for Children Arizona gathered parents and childcare providers from across Tucson to speak with Representative Alma Hernandez (LD 20) about the importance of early childhood investments to be included in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Among the topics discussed was the importance of investments in affordable childcare and the need for an earned income tax credit.
The roundtable came at a time when the average cost of childcare for a single kid has risen to nearly $11,000 per year and nearly one-third of young children are eligible for child care subsidies. Numbers suggest than more than 2,000 children are currently on a waitlist for childcare subsidies.
“As I talk to families in my district, the need for greater access to affordable childcare is evident,” said Representative Alma Hernandez. “Childcare is a vital necessity for these young families. I will continue to advocate for our state to make these crucial investments to support families in my district and throughout the state.”
