Widespread Closures Hit CT Child Care—But It’s No Accident

CONNECTICUT — "Morning Without Child Care" rallies are being held Wednesday across the state to spotlight Connecticut's "urgent child care crisis," according to Child Care for CT.

"From scrambling parents to strained businesses, this day reveals why we need a system that’s reliable, affordable, and accessible for every child," Child Care for CT says on its website.

The organization claims that Connecticut parents spend an average of 27% of their household income on child care, which is the highest in the country.

"Parents are staying home because they can't afford to work, and 1 in 5 parents has quit a job or been fired due to child care problems," Child Care for CT says.

Child care centers across the state will be closed as part of Wednesday's effort, according to News 12 Connecticut.

Gov. Ned Lamont proposed reducing the cost of child care for families in this year's budget and proposed a Universal Preschool Endowment, aimed at making pre-K and early childhood education more affordable.

Related: Lamont Unveils $55.2B Budget Plan: Here's What You Need To Know

Child Care for CT hopes to "drive lasting change" and "build a brighter future—one that prioritizes children, supports families, and boosts our economy." The organization also stresses living wages for educators.

“The childcare system in Connecticut is in crisis, and yet the entire Connecticut economy rests squarely on the shoulders of the early care and education system,” Allyx Schiavone, co-chair of Child Care for CT and executive director of Friends Center for Children, said during today’s rally in New Haven. “Without child care, nothing else works. I’m proud to stand with thousands of advocates from across the state, participating in this year’s Morning Without Child Care. We are here because we understand that child care in Connecticut doesn’t work; families can’t afford to pay, and teachers can’t afford to stay. It’s time we value women, children and families. Together, we will fix child care.”

Rallies are planned at the following locations:

• Bloomfield: 4 p.m., Town Green
• Stamford: 8:30 a.m., Government Center
• New London: 7:30 a.m., TVCCA Little Learners Early Education Program
• New Haven: 8 a.m., New Haven Green
• Torrington: 9 a.m., KidsPlay Museum
• Norwalk: 9 a.m., Norwalk Green
• Bridgeport: 10 a.m., Washington Park
• Waterbury: 9:45 a.m., Library Park
• Stratford: 10 a.m., Stratford Town Hall
• Danbury: 5 p.m., Hatters Park
• Mansfield: 5 p.m., Mansfield Discovery Depot
• Hartford: 5:30 p.m., Connecticut State Capitol: West Side
• New Britain: 5:30 p.m., The Center For Excellence
• Cheshire: 6:30 p.m., Play to Learn

Related: CT Among States With Highest Costs Of Raising A Child, New Study Says

Childcare Center Announces Abrupt Closure: Reports