EDUCATION
& CHILDCARE

Early Learning & Childcare: Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Success

At Impact 907, we recognize that early childhood education and accessible childcare fundamental to the well-being of families and the vitality of our communities. Our mission is to ensure that every child in the Pacific Northwest - regardless of their background or location - has access to quality early learning opportunities and that families have the support they need to thrive.

Addressing Regional Challenges

Alaska: Alaska currently ranks 49th nationally in education, with over 25% of students not graduating high school. Contributing factors include limited access to transportation, educational supplies, extracurricular activities, and basic necessities like food. Moreover, less than 20% of reported childcare needs are met, leaving over 80% of families without affordable childcare options in their boroughs.

Washington: Washington's population has grown by more than 400,000 in the past five years, yet the capacity of childcare providers has only increased by 3,000 children. The state ranks third in the nation for least affordable childcare for infants in family childcare programs. The average cost for infant care in a childcare center consumes 15.4% of a dual income household's median income and a staggering 51.5% for a single parent.

Oregon: Oregon is home to approximately 261,000 children under age five, with 63% of these children having all available parents in the workforce. However, the average annual cost of center-based infant care is nearly $18,000, consuming 39% of a single parent's income. Despite the high demand, only 12% of eligible families receive assistance through the Childcare and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), highlighting a significant gap in support.

Idaho: In Idaho, there are about 137,000 children under age five, with 57% having all available parents in the workforce. The typical annual cost of infant care is around $10,000. Yet, the CCDBG reaches only 15% of eligible families. Additionally, recent legislative changes have loosened childcare regulations, raising concerns about safety and quality in the state's childcare system.

Our Strategic Initiatives

To combat these challenges, Impact 907 is implementing the following strategies:

Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to develop and sustain projects that support early learning and student needs, recognizing that such connections can lead to a 45% higher graduation rate.
Resource Provision: Ensuring that students have access to necessary resources such as transportation, learning supplies, sports equipment, and nutritious food.
Childcare Accessibility: Advocating for and facilitating the development of affordable, local childcare options with hours that accommodate working parents' schedules.

Join Us in Making an Impact

We believe that by investing in early childhood education and childcare, we lay the groundwork for a more prosperous future. If you're a parent, educator, policymaker, or community member passionate about making a difference, we invite you to collaborate with us.

At Impact 907, we understand that early learning is not just a stage - it’s the cornerstone of lifelong success. When families have access to high-quality, affordable childcare and children are nurtured in safe, enriching environments, the entire community thrives. Our work is driven by the belief that educational access starts in the earliest years, and the choices we make today shape the opportunities of tomorrow. As we continue to expand access, partner with families and providers, and advocate for community engagement, we invite you to join us in ensuring every child in the Northwest has the strong start they deserve. Together, we can build a future where thriving children, supported families, and resilient communities are the norm - not the exception.