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“Early learning is just good business. That’s why the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce strongly supports funding early childhood education as key economic infrastructure for workforce preparation.”
“Accessible, quality child care plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of children and working families in our community.”
“Access to quality early care and education is fundamental for the growth and development of children—and for families to be able to contribute to the workforce. Successful children and working families are needed for a thriving community! Buncombe Partnership for Children is part of the statewide Smart Start system that works with child care providers and other partners to invest in the future of Buncombe’s youngest children and their families. Their work is vital!”
Buncombe County’s youngest children are the community’s most treasured resource.
Local businesses become critical allies by making financial commitments, adopting family-friendly practices, sharing networks, and more.
- There are 14,000 children under age 5 in Buncombe County. 46% live in low-income households. 70% are not enrolled in licensed child care.
- Year-round, full-day child care costs $9,000 per child, and families can be on the waitlist for 12 months or longer.
- Parents cite a lack of affordable child care as one of the top barriers to relocation to Asheville, predictable attendance at work, and to remaining in the labor force while children are young.
Support for each child and their family during the first 2,000 days—the time between birth and kindergarten—is key to changing this landscape.
Part of Buncombe Partnership for Children’s mission is to empower the community to increase family-friendliness. This translates into retaining a strong workforce in a competitive, vibrant community that attracts top talent and consumers.
Contact Ben Fehsenfeld, Fund Development & Communications Director, to learn how your business can add to the momentum. Email ben@buncombepfc.org or call 828-407-2064
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