As of October 1, the federal government shut down after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement for FY26. While the federal programs supporting child care are not expected to have funding or operations impacted for the time being, many other vital programs won’t be able to run as usual. Government shutdowns create real harm for families and communities across the country.  

Partnerships in Child Care – Building Strong Foundations in South Central Louisiana

When it comes to supporting the early childhood community, Tonya Harden and her team at Partnerships in Child Care, part of Volunteers of America South Central Louisiana, embody what it means to be a full-service, community-driven CCR&R. 

Looking Back at the 2025 Leadership Institute

At Child Care Aware® of America’s 2025 Leadership Institute, one theme echoed through every conversation, plenary, and hallway exchange: we are CCR&R Strong and we are building a Foundation for the Future.

Even though the child care system faces challenges there are paths forward. Sustainable child care isn’t just possible—it’s achievable, if we act together. Experts discussed these paths forward during a Congressional briefing held by Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) and the Buffet Early Childhood Institute on September 10, 2025 to examine how to use what we have learned to improve the child care system. 

Update: As of October 1, the federal government shut down after Congress failed to reach a funding agreement for FY26. Please visit our page with further information on how the shut down is affecting child care programs. 

Congress is back from August recess, and making funding decisions that will impact child care accessibility and affordability nationwide. These decisions will shape the resources available to families and child care providers across the country. 

Last week, the early childhood field lost one of its fiercest champions with the death of Jacklyn (Jackie) Bezos. Jackie’s devotion to children’s development, her melding of heart and action, and her fearless embrace of life’s challenges reflect values that inspire us at Child Care Aware® of America (CCAoA) every day. In light of her passing, we honor Jackie’s legacy in her commitment to early learning and support of CCAoA’s mission.