Child Care for CT Rally

Image Child Care for CT Rally

      Recognizing the critical need for high-quality child care to support working families is a keystone principle at Westview Child Care Center. On Monday, May 12th, Westview proudly served as a regional host site for a statewide rally in support of the National Day Without Child Care, organized by Child Care for CT.

      Communities across Connecticut joined in this coordinated effort as part of Child Care for CT’s springtime advocacy campaign. Families from Westview Child Care Center and the greater Dayville community gathered to share their stories and speak to the urgent need for accessible, affordable, and high-quality early childhood education.

      Westview was honored to be selected as a host site by community partners Kristine Cicchetti of the Northeast Early Childhood Council (NECC) and Maggie Francis-Gietzen of the Northeast CT Childcare Needs Project (NCCN). Their outreach recognized Westview as a model of excellence in employer-supported care and positioned the center as the first host site of its kind in the region.

      The fourth annual “Morning Without Child Care” event brought together families, educators, community leaders, and elected officials. Attendees engaged in activities including face painting, crafts, and live music by Lucy Morningstar, with opportunities to connect with Child Care for CT leadership, learn about proposed legislation, sign petitions, and show their support for system-wide solutions.

      Speakers included Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman, Coalitions Director of Child Care for CT; Izzy Greenberg, Communications Director; and State Senator Mae Flexor, who shared her perspective as both a legislator and working mother. Bronwyn McCracken, a Massage Therapist at Westview Sports Medicine and a teacher at Westview Child Care Center, also offered heartfelt remarks about the importance of quality care for both children and working parents:

      “Working with children isn’t just our job—it’s our passion. At Westview, we believe a strong partnership between teachers and parents creates the foundation for a child’s confidence and success. We’re proud to be that trusted option for many families in our region, and to be part of a growing community that values and supports this mission.”

      Westview Child Care Center Director Katy Holzer shared reflections on the event and the center’s purpose:

      “At Westview, we know that high-quality child care does more than support families—it strengthens our entire workforce. Since opening our doors in 2023, we’ve helped recruit and retain nurses, CNAs, therapists, therapy assistants, administrative professionals, and other essential staff. I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and grateful to stand with others across Connecticut advocating for meaningful child care solutions.”

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