Depending on your job and how many children you have, putting them on the right path can be costly for families. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, American families spend between 8.9% and 16% of their median income on full-day child care for one child, with annual prices ranging from $6,552 to $15,600. On the high end, child care costs are often comparable to what families may spend on rent or mortgage payments.
Doorway to Learning Executive Director Michelle Jacobson said during last week’s Pay to Play with the United Way broadcast on 96.7 WBDK that child care makes up an even larger portion of a family’s budget in Door County, where the median household income is $70,000. Jacobson said tuition assistance through the United Way helps make child care a reality for many families and keeps parents in the workforce, knowing their children are cared for in a safe environment with qualified staff.
The United Way of Door County also supports Doorway to Learning by funding a staff position that focuses on the social and emotional needs of its students. As of Monday, the United Way of Door County had reached 55% of its $1.2 million annual campaign goal. Donations can be made through Jan. 7 to support the United Way of Door County’s annual campaign.
In addition to United Way support, Doorway to Learning received good news in September when the Door County Community Foundation announced the Opening the Door to a Brighter Future Campaign, spearheaded by a $1 million commitment from philanthropists and longtime Door County residents Gary and Marti Spittell Ziegelbauer.
