News

West Alabama Works is emphasizing the importance of accessible, affordable childcare as a critical component of workforce development and economic growth throughout the region.

For many working families in West Alabama, the availability and cost of childcare can determine whether a parent is able to enter the workforce, maintain employment or pursue additional career opportunities. These challenges are particularly significant for employees in manufacturing, healthcare and logistics, where work schedules often extend beyond traditional childcare hours.

According to 2024 data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), approximately 85% of women ages 25 to 54 in France participated in the labor force, compared to 77.9% in the United States. While several factors influence workforce participation, access to childcare and family support services can play an important role in helping parents remain employed.

“An available job is not a genuine opportunity for someone who cannot find safe care for a child during the workday or work night,” said Donny Jones, Executive Vice President of The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and Chief Workforce Officer of West Alabama Works. “If we want more people working, we must help make work possible.”

To help address these challenges locally, West Alabama Works has collaborated with Shelton State Community College, United Way of West Alabama and other regional partners on the 3by3 childcare initiative. The program focuses on expanding access to quality childcare by helping individuals establish licensed, home-based childcare services, creating additional opportunities for both working parents and childcare providers.

The economic impact of childcare accessibility extends beyond individual families. For example, a parent earning $20 per hour while working full-time could earn approximately $41,600 annually. However, childcare expenses of $1,200 per month would total $14,400 each year, presenting a significant financial barrier.

Similarly, 100 additional parents entering the workforce at $20 per hour could generate approximately $4.16 million in annual gross wages. While these figures are illustrative and do not represent projected outcomes of the 3by3 initiative, they demonstrate the potential economic significance of reducing barriers to employment.

West Alabama Works continues to emphasize that successful workforce development requires more than recruiting employers and providing job training. Addressing barriers such as childcare, transportation and housing is essential to connecting residents with meaningful employment opportunities.

“Childcare should be understood not only as a family need, but as workforce infrastructure,” Jones said. “By working together to develop solutions that meet the needs of our communities, employers and families, we can help strengthen West Alabama’s workforce and support long-term economic growth.”

For more information, contact barkley@westalabamachamber.com.