Bill > HR62

This Resolution officially designates the month of September 2022 as Child Care Provider Appreciation Month in the State of Hawaii. It acknowledges the crucial role of early childhood development, emphasizing that significant brain growth occurs before age five and that high-quality early care and education lead to positive outcomes for children, including better school preparation and life success. The Resolution highlights that many working parents in Hawaii rely on child care services for over thirty thousand children under six, despite families often spending a substantial portion of their income on these services. It also points out the low wages earned by child care workers, with many experiencing food insecurity, and recognizes that the undervaluing of this profession is linked to historical biases. Therefore, the Resolution encourages policymakers, community groups, and residents to recognize the importance of child care providers and their services, urging them to ensure these essential workers are compensated appropriately for their skilled work and critical contribution to Hawaii's future.