To the editor:
Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP), the organization that provides child care services and programs announced has joined other child care organizations nationwide in declaring Friday, May 11 to be Provider Appreciation Day.
National efforts are under way to ask child care organizations, public officials and parents to honor their child care providers for their hard work and dedication to our children. Events such as luncheons, parades, dedications and other celebrations are planned.
In recent years, local governments across the country have joined many Governors, including Governor Baldacci in proclaiming this day of recognition. Many newspapers and publications have recognized this important event as well.
It is estimated that of the 21 million children under the age of 6 in America, 13 million are in child care at least part time. Additional 24 million school-age children are in some form of child care outside of school time.
We are encouraging parents with children in child care to express their appreciation to their child care provider. It takes a special person to work in this field and these individuals are often unrecognized and under appreciated.
Aroostook County Action Program provides the people of Aroostook with services and programs in the areas of health, nutrition, child and family, energy and housing, and employment and training.
Matthew Nelson, Resource Development Center coordinator
ACAP Child & Family Services
