Building a Foundation for the Future - Strategies for a Sustainable Childcare Solution in WNC

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina faces not only the physical and economic challenges of recovery, but also the pressing need for a renewed focus on the state’s already strained early childhood education infrastructure. Childcare teachers are the workforce behind the workforce, enabling families to return to work, businesses to reopen, and vital services to resume. As communities rebuild, it is essential that legislators prioritize policies that strengthen childcare resources to support families’ and businesses’ recovery in Western North Carolina and ensure statewide economic stability and growth.

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The Childcare Crunch: How NC’s Childcare Crisis is Putting Families and Businesses Between a Rock and a Hard Place - WNC Health Policy Podcast Ep. 9

North Carolina is facing a childcare crisis, with limited access, high costs, and workforce shortages impacting families and the economy. NC's childcare gap contributes to a $5 billion annual economic loss, affecting workforce participation and local revenue. Solutions like stabilization grants and public-private partnerships are helping, but long-term investment is needed for sustainable results.

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Tiny Homes, Big Impact: MAHEC Addresses Housing Crisis for Residents

A new initiative launched by the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC), co-host of the WNC Health Policy Initiative, offers an innovative housing solution for medical residents serving in rural Western North Carolina - purpose-built, energy-efficient tiny homes placed exactly where they’re needed most.

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Special Report: Emerging Issues and Opportunities in Healthcare Policy for WNC

Despite substantial healthcare spending, chronic illnesses remain the biggest threat to premature death and disability, particularly among working-aged individuals. These trends undermine our economy and threaten long-term fiscal and economic well-being in our region, state, and nation. In response, the 2024 WNC Legislative Caucus is committed to addressing three pressing healthcare policy issues: Social Care Delivery Systems, NC Medicaid Expansion, and Workforce Development.

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Executive Summary: Emerging Issues and Opportunities in Healthcare Policy for WNC

Despite substantial healthcare spending, chronic illnesses remain the biggest threat to premature death and disability, particularly among working-aged individuals. These trends undermine our economy and threaten long-term fiscal and economic well-being in our region, state, and nation. In response, the 2024 WNC Legislative Caucus is committed to addressing three pressing healthcare policy issues: Social Care Delivery Systems, NC Medicaid Expansion, and Workforce Development.

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