Parents rally for fully funded child care, better pay for educators

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Early childhood advocates are calling for change within the education system.

More than 500 people attended a rally in downtown Raleigh on the issue and some plan to speak with lawmakers about their goals.

"It costs us over $4,000 a month, which is three times our rent payment," Bridget Flaherty said.

Flaherty said it's tough for her to pay bills with the high cost of daycare for her three children.

"The level of stress that it's put on our family -- we live in a house that is falling apart, but we can't afford to move. It makes me really sad when I think it's going to take us years to get out from under this debt," she said.

Organizers are urging lawmakers to double their investments in child care, as well as increase pay and benefits for educators.

Folks are demanding accessible child care for all families as it can be incredibly expensive.

The rally is taking place days after President Biden signed an executive order that has more than 50 directives to increase access to child care and improve the work-life of caregivers.

One daycare owner says she's struggling to get in qualified workers because of the low wages.

"We just can't compete with Target and Walmart that are paying like $20 an hour. We can not compete. People can go to another position and make way more money and have more benefits, less stress," said Cassandra Brooks who owns Little Believers Academy.