Good Work Austin Pledges Support for Affordable Childcare

Good Work Austin envisions a healthier Austin connected and uplifted by the local food and beverage community. As part of our mission to foster healthy careers in the local food and beverage industry, we  express our enthusiastic support for Affordable Childcare Now and its efforts to address the urgent need for accessible, affordable childcare for working families in our community. As a coalition of businesses committed to promoting fair wages, equitable benefits, and a thriving local economy, we understand that affordable childcare is a critical pillar in building a more inclusive and resilient workforce.

Many of our member businesses recognize firsthand how the lack of affordable childcare creates a barrier for employees, especially for working parents striving to balance their professional and personal lives. Data collected in a 2024 survey by the Greater Austin Chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association demonstrated that less than 10% of employees have access to sufficient childcare to meet their needs. Research by the Urban Institute noted that in Travis County, 69% of children under age 6 have parents working in food services outside of the 9-5 business hours where childcare is not readily available. By championing solutions that expand access to high-quality, affordable childcare, Affordable Childcare Now is not only addressing a critical social need but also contributing to a healthier business ecosystem and a more equitable community.

We believe that investments in affordable childcare yield significant long-term benefits for employers, employees, and society at large. These investments lead to improved employee retention, increased productivity, and greater economic stability for families. Most importantly, they provide children with the early education and care they need to thrive.

Good Work Austin is proud to stand alongside Affordable Childcare Now in advocating for meaningful policies and programs that make childcare more affordable and accessible to all. We look forward to continued collaboration and offer our full support for Travis County Proposition A. Together, we can create a future where all working families have access to the support they need to succeed.

Kara Hanaoka

Executive Director

Good Work Austin