MD Child Care Providers Unite with SEIU 500

Providers vote for union to improve services

Nearly 6,000 home-based child care providers across Maryland will now have a strong voice to stand up for affordable, quality child care, after voting by a 75 percent majority vote to join together and form a union with SEIU Kids First. 

Maryland's child care assistance program reimburses providers at rates so low that, on average, providers make less than minimum wage. With no access to affordable health insurance through their work, and no voice in the decisions that affect the kids in their care, many can’t afford to stay in the profession. Maryland communities have lost nearly 3,000 licensed providers since 1994.

With a strong, united voice, the providers will be able to negotiate with the state for better reimbursements from the state child care assistance program, more training opportunities, and other improvements that will help providers keep serving their communities.

Read more at KidsFirstMaryland.org.