Foundation for Rural Service Releases ‘Understanding Childcare Challenges in Rural America’

Recognizing that the lack of affordable and available childcare is a national economic challenge that impacts families, businesses and communities across the United States, the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), the philanthropic arm of NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association, and TPMA, a strategic consulting agency advancing workforce, economic, and community development, today released a new report examining ways to address this challenge in rural communities.

"Understanding Childcare Challenges in Rural America" provides strategic recommendations and an action framework to address childcare shortages and affordability issues. It outlines current and emerging childcare models, provides recommendations for those at the state, local, employer and childcare-facility levels and includes examples of successful initiatives NTCA members have implemented in their communities.

"We can no longer think about childcare as an issue that impacts only women," said FRS Executive Director Pam Becker. "It is a challenge that families, businesses and communities across the country, and especially in rural America, are grappling with every day. This report highlights some of the solutions that NTCA members have developed to support the needs of their employees and communities and provides recommendations for providers and communities that are looking to build their own childcare or early learning programs."

"TPMA understands the critical childcare challenges facing rural America," said Alex Taylor, consultant at TPMA. "Our ongoing support and research empower communities with actionable insights and innovative solutions to address the crisis. This analysis not only highlights practical examples and essential resources but also offers a roadmap for sustainable, community-driven strategies that will make a lasting impact."

The report is now available on the FRS website and will be shared with NTCA member providers throughout the fall and in early 2025 through a variety of initiatives, including peer-to-peer networking activities.<_o3a_p>