06 Aug Foundation to Host First Regional Child Care Business Summit
The McPherson County Community Foundation will host its first Regional Child Care Business Summit on Aug. 25, bringing together business and industry leaders to explore how childcare impacts workforce development and the long-term success of communities across the region.
According to Child Care Aware of Kansas, McPherson County currently needs an additional 437 licensed childcare spots to meet the existing demand for care. At the county’s current capacity, many families must rely on unlicensed or temporary childcare arrangements, while others are forced to reduce their work hours or leave the workforce altogether.
For local employers, that shortage directly affects recruitment, retention, and the long-term strength of the workforce. This summit, led by Child Care Aware of Kansas, Workforce Alliance and Child Start, is designed to help employers better understand these challenges and explore ways businesses can become part of the solution.
The summit will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the McPherson Community Building, with lunch provided. Through the Foundation’s partnerships with childcare zone grant recipients in Harvey, Marion, and Rice counties, attendees will gain a regional perspective on childcare needs and opportunities.
The presentation will include local and regional data, examples of employer-led childcare initiatives from across the country, and information on how businesses can play a role in strengthening childcare availability. Representatives will also discuss available tax credits, federal incentives, and policy changes expected to shape the childcare landscape in 2027. Attendees will learn how licensed childcare providers have adapted in recent years to improve affordability and availability while navigating ongoing financial challenges.
“The connection between childcare and the growth and sustainability of our communities is obvious,” said Betsy Davis, director of community services at the McPherson County Community Foundation. “The young families and new employees our businesses hope to attract and retain depend on having access to quality, affordable childcare.”
Davis said licensed childcare providers continue to face significant financial pressures despite efforts to improve long-term sustainability.
“The current model for childcare is unsustainable.” Davis said. “Providers are caught between keeping care affordable and generating enough revenue to cover their costs. The current system places tremendous strain on parents and providers.”
The Foundation and its regional partners hope the summit will begin a larger conversation about how employers can become active partners in strengthening the childcare system, ultimately benefiting businesses, families, and communities alike.
“It’s only through a strong partnership among industry, the community, and childcare providers that we can begin to solve the childcare challenge,” Davis said.
Business and industry leaders from across the region are encouraged to attend. Those interested in participating or learning more about becoming a community childcare partner can RSVP by contacting Betsy Davis at Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org or using this online form here.