Accessible Child Care

A few weeks ago, on one of my door-knocking outings, I met Lucy Higgins, one of the entrepreneurs behind Snaps and Sunflowers. Lucy and Rebecca Tisbert's small floral business is blossoming with flowers for sale in town, wedding clients, live music events, yoga farm series, and much more. Lucy was gracious enough to give us a quick tour and rundown of their small business. We talked a lot about market diversification in agriculture, which is precisely what they set out to do – create another revenue stream at Valley Dream Farm. Their inventive and persistent spirit is precisely the kind of work ethic and creative mindset needed as we navigate the future of farming in Vermont.

Lucy was also very honest about her struggles with child care. As all working parents know, without reliable child care it's almost impossible to work and earn a living for a family. Lucy was able to find child care but was very upfront that without it, Snap and Sunflowers would not be as robust with products and offerings as it is today. There have been many state-wide reports that classify our early childhood care system as "broken" and that it doesn't work for anyone. This needs to change. I'm ready to address childcare as a legislator so our youngest Vermonters are guaranteed a bright future, our educators are fairly compensated, and parents around the region can continue to focus on their passions, just like Lucy at Snaps and Sunflowers.

In addition to continuing to knock on doors throughout our voting district, I am hosting an event on Thursday, September 15 from 5-7 p.m. at the Cambridge Community Center. I'll be there to answer your questions, discuss my platform, and listen to all of you about your goals and concerns for our community. Plus, we'll have some good food!
I hope to see you there!