Child care can make a difference

To the Editor;

I appreciated Thomas College President Laurie Lachance’s recent OpEd highlighting a recent report on the scarcity of child care in rural Maine. I echo her support for investments in child care, especially in rural areas.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that the lack of child care is an obstacle holding back Maine’s economy and our state’s workforce, as well as potentially harming long-term public safety.

We are all aware the stress of public safety work is high. Our workers need to know their own kids are safe and in a nurturing environment while we are at work, so we can fully focus on our jobs and provide the best service to the public. The Bangor area has been fortunate to have the Bangor YMCA to provide ongoing, high-quality child care throughout the pandemic. I know others outside the Bangor region have not been so fortunate. This is one of many reasons I support investments to expand access to child care to everyone but speaking specifically to the profession of public safety workers who have children of their own so they have the peace of mind their kids are well cared for when we are at work.

Additionally, I know quality child care can make a real difference. For kids at risk, early child care provides the support and resources they need to get a strong start and continue on a positive life path that does not include criminal behavior.

Mark Leonard

Chief of police

Veazie