Modesto City Council Approves Funding Towards Increasing Access to Affordable Childcare and Address

Modesto, CA, June 27, 2024 - The City Council recently approved funding agreements with Stanislaus Community Foundation and HealthForce Partners. To improve and expand our local workforce, these funding agreements contribute to sustainable opportunities for workforce development, supporting local businesses, and driving equitable economic growth in the City of Modesto.

As economic recovery from COVID-19 is still underway, the City of Modesto continues to implement initiatives that can help move Modesto Forward allocating the American Rescue Pan Act to support the economic vitality of our community and improving the quality of life for all residents.

Supporting Stanislaus 2030, an investment strategy for regional economic growth, the City Council approved a funding agreement with Stanislaus Community Foundation for $156,758 for grants for residents to start home-based childcare businesses. Access to safe and affordable childcare has been a serious barrier for many families. By funding this agreement, the City is directly impacting economic growth by expanding the workforce by creating more job opportunities in childcare and reducing the barriers for families in ensuring their children are safe and cared for during work hours.

To continue efforts in expanding the workforce in the City of Modesto, the Council approved a funding agreement with United Way of San Joaquin County for the implementation of a Stanislaus County Behavioral Health Workforce Partnership Project by HealthForce Partners Northern San Joaquin Valley. The funding agreement is for $500,000 to support current healthcare employees in the City of Modesto for advanced degrees leading to clinical licensure in behavioral health. This will support residents who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees and licensure while continuing to live and work locally, which contributes towards the growth of the behavioral health workforce in our community.

"The behavioral healthcare workforce plays a crucial role in enhancing both the quality of life of residents and addressing homelessness," says Mayor Sue Zwahlen. "The City is supporting sustainable ways to keep our healthcare professionals local providing services in a community they love."

The City of Modesto is committed to supporting and collaborating with local businesses by fostering strategic partnerships that create a vibrant and inclusive economy for all residents.

Sonya Severo
Public Relations and Legislative Affairs Manager
209-497-0075
Email Sonya Severo