New Task Force Launched to Address Child Care Crisis in Southern West Virginia

OAK HILL, WV, UNITED STATES, September 5, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- A new task force is being established to address the growing child care crisis in Southern West Virginia. With thousands of children at risk of losing access to essential early childhood education services, the "Together We Grow Southern WV Task Force" will unite community leaders, business owners, educators, and citizens to develop sustainable solutions that will enhance the region's child care infrastructure.

The task force, a collaboration between A Place To Grow Children’s Center, led by Melissa Colagrosso, and the national child care consulting firm Child Care Biz Help, is focused on ensuring that every child has access to high-quality, affordable child care. This initiative will support parents in pursuing their careers while also strengthening the region’s economy.

“Child care is the foundation of a thriving community, enabling parents to work and contributing to economic growth while nurturing the next generation,” said Melissa Colagrosso, owner of A Place To Grow Children’s Center. “We are facing challenges such as insufficient funding, staffing shortages, and inadequate facilities that require immediate action. The Together We Grow Southern WV Task Force is committed to addressing these issues through strong community partnerships.”

A recent article from West Virginia Watch highlights the lack of a concrete state plan to address the looming child care crisis. The Together We Grow Southern WV Task Force aims to fill this gap by actively exploring solutions and providing recommendations to local and state policymakers.

Who Should Join the Task Force?
The task force is seeking individuals and organizations dedicated to resolving the child care crisis in Southern West Virginia. Community leaders, business owners, educators, HR representatives, and concerned citizens are encouraged to join and share their expertise in shaping the future of early childhood education in the region.

How to Get Involved:
- Register for the Kick-Off Event: Join us virtually for the announcement of this initiative. Visit our website for registration details.
- Join the Task Force: Lend your expertise and contribute to finding viable solutions.
- Volunteer: Help with outreach efforts to engage local businesses and community members.
- Support the Initiative: Display a "Together We Grow" yard sign or help distribute campaign materials.

The task force will share its findings and recommendations with the public and relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency and community-driven action. Together, we can bridge the gap in child care services and create a thriving future for families across Southern West Virginia.

About Melissa Colagrosso
Melissa Colagrosso is a leader in the child care industry, advocating for sustainable and impactful changes that benefit children, families, and communities. She is also owner of A Place To Grow. A Place to Grow is a child care center located in Oak Hill, West Virginia that is committed to providing high-quality early childhood education and care, supporting the growth and development of children in a nurturing and safe environment.

About Child Care Biz Help
Child Care Biz Help is a consulting firm specializing in the business side of child care, offering services and resources to help child care centers thrive and succeed in a competitive landscape.

For more information or to join the Together We Grow Southern WV Task Force, visit togetherwegrowchildcare.org or contact togetherwegrowwv@gmail.com.

Melissa Colagrosso
Together We Grow
+1 (304) 575-7228
togetherwegrowwv@gmail.com
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