Year of Publication
2024
College
Martin School of Public Policy and Administration
Date Available
5-1-2024
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration
Advisor
Taha Hameduddin
Co-Director of Graduate Studies
Caroline Weber
Abstract
Kentucky's workforce participation rates are among the lowest in the nation, thus underscoring the urgent need to strengthen and sustain its workforce (Aull, 2023). One significant barrier for many families in the workforce is the lack of accessibility and affordability of childcare. The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) in Kentucky aims to alleviate this burden for low-income families. Despite the program's importance, no prior study has examined the direct impact of CCAP enrollment on workforce participation in Kentucky. This research addresses this gap by conducting a multiple regression analysis using aggregate data from the Kentucky Center for Statistics, the US Census, and the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Our analysis reveals compelling insights into the relationship between CCAP enrollment and workforce participation, alongside other variables such as median household income and educational attainment levels. Our findings underscore the critical role of accessible childcare in parental decision-making regarding workforce engagement. Notably, CCAP enrollment emerges as a significant factor influencing labor force participation in Kentucky, alongside other socio-economic determinants. Interestingly, gender does not appear to exert a statistically significant influence on workforce participation in our analysis. This study contributes valuable empirical evidence to the ongoing discourse on workforce participation dynamics in Kentucky. The implications of our findings extend to policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders involved in shaping childcare support policies and initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and resilient workforce in the state.
Recommended Citation
Osunmade, Valentina and French, Cameron, "Impact of the Availability and Affordability of Childcare on the Economy" (2024). MPA/MPP/MPFM Capstone Projects. 443.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/mpampp_etds/443
