By Rodd Cayton
Area state legislators will be in Bernalillo next month to discuss ways to improve New Mexico’s supply of childcare. State Sen. Cindy Nava will headline the program at 4 p.m. Aug. 5 at the El Zócalo Event Center, 264 S. Camino Del Pueblo. Growing Up New Mexico, an early childhood partnership, the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department and the Low Income Investment Fund are the hosts.
“The community event will bring together early childhood educators, families, local leaders, community partners, and state officials for food, resources, family activities, and conversation about how New Mexico can continue building the supply of child care for more families,” according to a news release announcing the event.
The event will highlight recent legislative advancements in early childhood, including no-cost universal childcare and state policy efforts to support child care providers, families, and local communities, the release states. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local and statewide resource partners, learn more about early childhood supports, and participate in family-friendly activities. According to the release, the event will also highlight how child care is a critical part of community and economic development, with a focus on the achievements and work needed to support children, strengthen families, and expand access to child care in Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Sandoval County, and surrounding communities. Besides, Nava, state Reps. E. Diane Torres-Velásquez, Patricia Roybal Caballero, Alan Martinez, Yanira Gurrola and Cristina Parajón are expected to participate.
The Bernalillo event is part of a statewide series of community conversations focused on celebrating early childhood progress, sharing resources, and strengthening local child care supply, the release states.
Growing Up New Mexico Spokesperson Ana Wooldridge told the Sandoval Signpost the event will be especially valuable for families with young children, early childhood educators and child care providers. The event is free and open to the public. Anyone wishing to attend may RSVP here.