Report: Sacramento area’s childcare shortage leaves 4,300 kids on waiting list

Sacramento Business Journal highlights the growing need for affordable child care and long-term investment in Sacramento County families and providers.

• Date 5/20/26

A recent Sacramento Business Journal article spotlighted findings from Child Action’s 2024–25 Impact Report, highlighting the growing gap between child care demand and available services across Sacramento County.

The article examines how limited funding and ongoing provider shortages have left more than 4,300 children on Child Action’s eligibility waiting list while many working families continue struggling to access affordable, reliable care. It also explores the broader economic impact of child care access, emphasizing how dependable child care supports workforce participation, strengthens business stability, and contributes to regional economic growth.

The coverage further highlights Child Action’s ongoing efforts to expand provider capacity, increase access to subsidized care, and support child care professionals throughout the region. The article also underscores the importance of long-term public and private investment in child care infrastructure to help meet the growing needs of families, providers, employers, and local communities across Sacramento County.