WASHINGTON (Nexstar) — Early education advocates from across the country gathered on Capitol Hill on Tuesday to urge lawmakers to invest in U.S. education and provide humanitarian support for the world’s children.
Natalia Mayes lives in South Carolina and traveled to the nation’s capital to be a voice for young people. Mayes said access to affordable childcare is a major problem in South Carolina and it’s putting children’s lives at risk.
“We have such a high rate of childcare deserts and the quality of care, the affordability of care and the safety is just not there.”
Experts said the first five years of a child’s life are the most important. Advocates want lawmakers to focus on early education as they hash out a budget deal.