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What is the Business-Child Care Partnership?

A unique public-private initiative from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY), this partnership —giving your business a real advantage in today’s competitive labor market. Businesses, government, and nonprofits work together to increase access to high-quality childcare, support workforce stability, and boost productivity.helps employers provide affordable, reliable childcare for their workforce

Why child care matters for your business & Ohio’s economy

  • 44% of working parents with children under age five in Ohio have had to miss work, leave early, or lose focus because of childcare challenges.
  • 86% of Ohio voters and 90% of parents with young children agree that increasing access to high-quality childcare will help strengthen Ohio’s economy and workforce. 
  • 34% of Ohioans—and 56% of Ohio parents—say they or someone they know would consider entering the workforce if quality childcare were available. 

Participating in this partnership helps remove a major barrier to workforce participation, reduces absenteeism, and improves employee retention.

Supporting childcare access is a workforce and economic development strategy that benefits your business and the broader community.

Register your business today at https://tinyurl.com/mrxb6d8v

How It Works!

  • Employers contribute $100–$200/month per participating employee, per child/family to a nonprofit partner.
  • The State of Ohio matches your contribution through December 2026.
  • The nonprofit pays the childcare provider directly for your employee.
  • After December 2026, employers agree to cover the full cost to continue the benefit.
  • ECRC can also assist employees in finding high-quality childcare that meets their needs.

Why Partner? The Employer Advantage

  • Attract and retain employees by offering a benefit that truly matters.
  • Increase employee attendance and productivity—parents with reliable childcare miss fewer workdays. 
  • Reduce turnover and hiring costs—employees are more likely to stay when their family needs are met.
  • Reduce the burden of childcare costs on employees.
  • Support your community by strengthening local childcare programs and families.

Partnership Goals

  • For Businesses: Higher employee attendance, improved productivity, lower turnover rates.
  • For Working Families: Better access to reliable, high-quality child care that fits work schedules.
  • For Child Care Programs: Increased financial stability and reduced staff turnover.

The Financial Burden of Child Care in Ohio 

  • Average household with two children spends 29% of its income on child care. 
  • Annual cost for full-time infant care in Ohio now exceeds $12,300, up 25% since 2019.
  • For many families, child care is one of the largest household expenses—often surpassing in-state college tuition. 

Ready to Make a Difference? Contact the Early Childhood Resource Center to learn how your business can join this innovative partnership and become an employer of choice! Call 330-491-3272 or email info@ecresourcecenter.org.

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