Daycare providers asking West Virginia lawmakers for funding help

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – Dozens of daycare providers from around the Kanawha Valley rallied at the West Virginia State Capitol Monday in a call for state lawmakers to help fund childcare.

There’s a shortage of childcare workers across the Mountain State, and just this month, a daycare in Elkview, Momma Bear’s, announced it has to close its doors . Owner Lisa Kinder told 13 News their last day would be May 31, after struggling to stay afloat for months.

Amy Williams of Cross Lanes Childcare and Learning Center says child tax credits aren’t enough, and they need help now.

“This is what we really need. I mean, we are trying to stand up. We’re here for these kids. We need quality care, these kids need quality care. Without child care, no one can work, so we’re trying to show them how important this is to us,” Williams said.

The group is asking for lawmakers to come together during an executive session to address the issue.

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