As the Greater Sacramento region attracts new businesses, high-quality jobs and major capital investment, one essential factor often remains behind the scenes: child care. For nearly 50 years, Child Action has ensured families — and the employers who rely on them — have access to reliable, affordable, high-quality child care. Today, as the region accelerates its economic growth, the connection between child care and economic competitiveness has never been clearer.

Child care is not just a family concern; it is a cornerstone of economic growth. Quality, accessible child care strengthens families, communities and businesses alike. For employers, it is a workforce issue. For parents, it’s one of the keys to economic mobility. And for the region, it is foundational to a thriving economy.

In the past year, Child Action supported nearly 38,000 children, families and child care providers in Sacramento County through resources, referrals and financial assistance. Behind these numbers are parents able to work, study or advance. When parents have reliable care, employers gain a more stable and productive workforce.

“Child care isn’t a side issue. It’s foundational to how communities grow. If we want to strengthen Sacramento’s competitiveness, attract new industries and retain top talent, we must treat child care as essential infrastructure.” — Adonai Mack, CEO

“Child care isn’t a side issue,” says Child Action CEO Adonai Mack. “It’s foundational to how communities grow. If we want to strengthen Sacramento’s competitiveness, attract new industries and retain top talent, we must treat child care as essential infrastructure. When families have reliable care, employers gain stability and our region becomes stronger. Sacramento can lead the nation in showing what happens when business and community leaders work together to prioritize child care.”

Research shows that every dollar invested in early childhood programs can yield up to $16 in long-term benefits. Child Action’s recent investments are projected to generate between $500 million and $2 billion in long-term regional benefits.

This year, Child Action joined a national delegation in Washington, D.C., to advocate for scalable solutions and hosted its first Building Bridges Policy Summit to strengthen collaboration among policymakers, philanthropists, chambers of commerce and business leaders.

As Child Action approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, it is entering a new chapter focused on economic mobility, partnership and long-term community impact. Help build a more prosperous Sacramento, strengthen our workforce and expand child care services by donating to Child Action’s Impact Fund.