CDA AnnualReport 2024 - Flipbook - Page 24
Expanding access to quality child care through innovative solutions
CARE San Diego
San Diego continues to face a critical shortage of child care options—
limiting families’ access to safe, reliable, and developmentally
appropriate care. In response, CDA launched CARE San Diego in 2023, a
groundbreaking initiative designed to expand the supply of high-quality
child care in underserved communities.
In partnership with Mission Driven Finance, CARE San Diego empowers
small, licensed family child care home providers to grow their businesses
by leasing newly acquired properties speci昀椀cally tailored for child care
operations. This model enables providers to increase their licensed
capacity, serve more children, and strengthen the long-term sustainability
of their business.
As the 昀椀rst region in the country to launch this initiative, California has set
the stage for broader impact. CARE San Diego began by selecting ten family
child care home providers as future tenants. In 2024, two properties in the
Lemon Grove neighborhood were acquired, with renovations scheduled to
begin soon.
Building on its early success, the CARE model has now expanded to
Nevada and Colorado, making California one of three states implementing
this innovative solution. CDA remains committed to reimagining what’s
possible in early care and education. By collaborating with mission-aligned
partners and investing in bold, community-driven strategies, we continue
to unlock new pathways for addressing child care shortages and supporting
working families.
A big shout-out to our partners at Mission Driven Finance,
for their support and commitment to this program
and CDA’s mission.
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