Myself as Defender Example

Unlike other countries, the local, state and federal government do not universally support early childcare from birth to age 5, when children can enter public kindergartens.

I can defend democracy by creating a childcare collective to support low-income parents with affordable childcare.

Childcare costs in Chicago exceed $13,000 per year, making it nearly impossible for families at or below the poverty level to afford childcare.

Childcare is essential for parents to be able to attend to their mental and physical health, to seek and maintain employment, or to further their education.

However, many families that qualify for other support (nutrition, housing) do not receive childcare benefits.

• Recruit other teens age 12+

• Partner with provider to receive child first aid and babysitting training

• Offer childcare at school events free of charge to advertise services

• Provide low cost childcare for parents in community