Letter to the Editor: Addressing Child Care Needs in Rockbridge County
In a recent article published in The News-Gazette, Ed Smith sheds light on a critical issue plaguing our community: the shortage of child care options in Rockbridge County. This report, based on a study conducted by the Shenandoah Valley Economic Development Partnership (SERCAP) at the direction of the Rockbridge County Economic Development Department, underscores a pressing need that has significant implications for families, businesses, and the broader economic landscape of our region.
The lack of accessible child care has been a persistent challenge, impacting not only families who struggle to find suitable care for their children but also local businesses that rely on a stable workforce. In response to this urgent need, I commend the Lexington Planning Commission for its recent approval of a conditional use permit related to the proposed Yellow Brick Road Expansion at Lexington Presbyterian, as reported by Joseph Haney. This development represents a proactive step towards expanding child care options that can better serve our community.
The focus on child care was further amplified during a Women+Girls Forum hosted last summer by First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, where various professionals, including Linda Tackett from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), discussed initiatives aimed at supporting women and girls in the Commonwealth. Notably, Ms. Tackett presented the VSBFA’s Child Care Financing Program, which offers substantial financial assistance to eligible family day home providers and child care centers. This program can provide funds of up to ,000 at 0% interest, repayable over seven years for family day homes, and up to 0,000 at the same interest rate for qualified child care centers, with repayment periods extending to ten years.
In light of these insights, I reached out to Ms. Tackett to confirm the availability of these funding opportunities. She confirmed that the financial resources remain accessible for qualified applicants. Interested parties can obtain further information by contacting Ms. Tackett directly at (804) 786-1049, via email at vsbfa@sbsd.virginia.gov, or through their website at www.sbsd.virginia.gov.
It is my hope that this information will assist community members and organizations in addressing the significant child care challenges we face. Collectively, we can strive to create a more supportive environment for families and children, ultimately fostering a healthier economy and community in Rockbridge County.
— PAT WIESE, Rockbridge County
