This Mother's Day, Send More Than Flowers

by Helen Blank, Director, Leadership and Public Policy, 
National Women's Law Center 

Mothers know best. And in this challenging economy, mothers (and non-mothers alike) know that it’s key to keep families earning, and children learning.

On Mother’s Day, send more than flowers ― send a strong message to Congress to support working mothers and families by increasing funds for child care and other early childhood programs.

The Obama Administration’s budget proposal for next year includes important increases in funding for child care, Head Start, and child nutrition programs. These programs serve our most disadvantaged children, enable parents to get and keep a job, and promote good nutrition early in life. (Want to learn more about the importance of these programs? Check out our letter to the Administration.)

Congress must fully fund the President’s budget proposal to ensure that our children, families, and nation reach their full potential. Write to Congress today to make clear the importance of a $1.6 billion increase for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, a $989 million increase for Head Start and Early Head Start, and a $1 billion increase for child nutrition programs.

Hard-working mothers across the country can’t wait. Support moms this Mother’s Day by speaking up for child care and other early childhood programs.