MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — As Gov. Tony Evers continues to urge the Republican-controlled Legislature to invest in affordable and accessible childcare, the Democrat visited the Boys and Girls Club of Menasha on Wednesday.
In the new budget, Evers provided a $5 million increase to Boys and Girls Clubs across the state. This money is intended to ensure the groups continue their work supporting kids and providing out-of-school programming.
“The sheer numbers of kids that here today, and I think everyday during the summer, especially, but, you know, it may look like chaos, but it isn’t,” said Evers. “I mean, they have great opportunities — whether it is working on computers, whether it’s in the gym, the activities are keeping the kids occupied. They’re learning new skills, and it is summer, and they’re having fun.”
Supporters say this is critical for working families, and it gives kids a safe, supportive place to go while their parents are working. Opponents argue that there need to be other systemic changes, not necessarily fiscal policies.
Evers said state resources are available and can help stabilize the state’s childcare industry.
