Subsidies for working poor are vital

Editorial from AZ Republic on July 27, 2010

Bill Berk – Tucson

Thank you for the attention you are bringing to the travesty involving child-care subsidies for the working poor (“State must not let subsidies die for those in need,” Editorial, Monday). The number of children currently on the waiting list can be counted. What can’t be counted is the number of children being left home alone or with unsuitable caregivers while their parents attempt to earn a living and support their families. The safety of all our children is at stake, yet the governor and Legislature seemingly turn a blind eye to the struggles of working parents as they try to better their lives.

Parents without access to safe, affordable and reliable child care are unable to work. Instead, they stop working and access more state-funded programs. While funding child care may seem expensive, the cost pales compared to supporting a family on welfare.