By: Andrea Mackin and Kendall Hill
At Seattle Foundation, we recognize that childcare is essential to economic stability, educational success, and a more equitable future. Yet, too many families, particularly those in historically underserved communities face steep barriers to accessing high-quality early learning opportunities. That is why we invest in organizations like Start Early Washington, a leader in expanding culturally responsive, high-quality early childhood education.
With deep expertise in home visiting, workforce development, and policy advocacy, Start Early Washington drives meaningful change to ensure that every child—regardless of background—has a strong foundation to thrive. They are shaping a more inclusive early learning system that prioritizes families, centers equity, and removes systemic barriers.
For many working families, particularly BIPOC and low-income communities, childcare remains one of the most significant barriers to economic stability. Families face overwhelming costs, long waitlists, and a shortage of qualified early childhood educators. This creates childcare deserts that limit opportunities for both parents and children. These challenges make it harder for caregivers to work and restrict children’s access to critical early learning experiences reinforcing cycles of inequity.
Addressing these disparities is essential to creating a future where all Washington families have what they need to live full lives.
Driving Systemic Change in Early Childhood Education
In addition to their home visiting work, Start Early Washington is deeply engaged in policy efforts to make childcare more accessible and affordable. They focus on ensuring enough physical facilities to meet the growing needs of communities while advocating for policies that expand access to available services. Preparing for the future of childcare and preschool in Washington, they convened an Early Learning Facilities advisory committee bringing together experts and community leaders to provide advice, make recommendations, and organize initiatives that address the evolving needs of families.
Their recent professional development initiatives have equipped hundreds of early educators with the skills and resources needed to provide high-quality care. By strengthening the early childhood workforce and removing systemic barriers, Start Early Washington is building a more sustainable, inclusive childcare system—one that supports families, advances equity, and invests in the well-being of future generations.
Seattle Foundation is proud to support this work as part of our commitment to expanding childcare access through strategic investments in policies, infrastructure, and funder collaboration, building a more equitable early learning system for the region.
The Power of Early Support: Yahaira’s Story
For Yahaira, becoming a mother was both joyful and overwhelming. Pregnant and unsure of what the future held; she faced the weight of uncertainty alone until she connected with a Start Early Washington home visitor. Through their relationship, she found not just guidance, but a sense of confidence and empowerment in her journey as a parent.
“Home visitation has set me up for success in the future. I feel like I am no longer fearful of what’s to come because they provided me with the proper tools and knowledge for me to pass on to my daughter Michelle for her development,” she shares.
With personalized support, Yahaira gained the skills to create a nurturing environment for her daughter, ensuring she had the foundation for a strong start in life. Her story is a powerful reminder of why investing in early childhood programs matters because when families have the support they need, entire communities thrive.
Make an Impact: Invest in Early Learning
A strong start in life lays the foundation for lifelong success but too many families face steep barriers to high-quality early learning and childcare. Organizations like Start Early Washington are working to change that, but with public funding under threat, rapid response and stopgap funding may be required to ensure they can continue providing critical services.
As a Seattle Foundation fundholder, you can act today by using your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) to invest in Start Early Washington or other organizations strengthening the early childhood workforce and expanding access to quality childcare. Your support will remove systemic barriers, create lasting change, and build a more equitable and sustainable childcare system for families across Washington.
Looking for additional ways to deepen your impact? Consider investing in Seattle Foundation’s broader early learning and childcare initiatives. Your partnership enables us to move resources quickly to organizations supporting children and families most affected by systemic inequities.
Our Philanthropic Advisors are here to help you make meaningful, strategic investments. To learn more or take action today, connect with Mary Rennekamp, Chief Philanthropy Officer.
Together, we can build a future where every child can thrive.
Early learning is the foundation of a more joyful, just, and prosperous region for all.
Additional Resources:
Start Early Washington: Promoting Comprehensive Prenatal-to-Five Programs in Washington
“Home visitation has set me up for success in the future. I feel like I am no longer fearful of what’s to come (because) they provided me with the proper tools and knowledge for me to pass on to Michelle for her development.” – Yahaira, client and parent of a healthy, thriving two-year old
Start Early Washington National Home Visiting Client Story.