Child care costs in the United States present a significant hurdle for parents pursuing higher education. For many families, particularly in areas like Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, these expenses can reach staggering amounts, sometimes totaling between $13,000 and $15,000 annually, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. This financial strain often forces parents to delay or abandon their academic aspirations. However, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are increasingly stepping up to address this challenge by implementing innovative child care programs.
One notable example is Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), an HBCU in Charlotte, NC, which has taken proactive steps to alleviate the financial burden of child care for its student parents. By participating in the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program, JCSU provides eligible students with access to free child care services, creating a more supportive environment for them to achieve their educational goals. This initiative not only benefits individual students but also underscores the broader commitment of HBCUs to fostering inclusive and accessible higher education.
HBCUs: A Legacy of Support and Accessibility
Historically, HBCUs have played a pivotal role in providing educational opportunities to underserved communities. This legacy extends to recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by student parents. Understanding that access to affordable child care is crucial for these students’ success, many HBCUs are actively developing and expanding programs that offer comprehensive support beyond just academics. These institutions recognize that by removing barriers like child care costs, they empower student parents to fully engage in their studies and contribute to the vibrant campus community.
Johnson C. Smith University’s CCAMPIS Program: A Model for Success
JCSU’s participation in the CCAMPIS program exemplifies how HBCUs are translating their commitment into tangible action. The university’s partnership with Child Care Resources Inc. streamlines the process for student parents to connect with quality child care facilities in the area. While JCSU was approved for the CCAMPIS grant in 2019, the program’s utilization has grown significantly as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has lessened, and more students have become aware of this invaluable resource.
For students like Jessica McDonald, a 32-year-old psychology major and mother of three at JCSU, the CCAMPIS program has been life-changing. Before discovering the program, McDonald faced the daunting prospect of balancing tuition fees with exorbitant child care expenses. As she explained, “Day care is so expensive, and my whole paycheck was going towards child care,” making the pursuit of her degree seem financially unsustainable. The CCAMPIS program offered the financial relief she desperately needed, allowing her to enroll at JCSU and focus on her studies without the constant worry of child care costs.
Jessica McDonald with her family, highlighting the support student parents receive at HBCUs through programs like CCAMPIS.
McDonald’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of such programs. Being a non-traditional student returning to education, she initially faced significant hurdles. However, with the support of the CCAMPIS program, she not only excelled academically but also became deeply involved in campus life. Her achievements, including being the first non-traditional student to serve as Miss Sophomore, highlight the transformative potential of removing child care barriers. “I feel satisfied, I feel like I’m walking in my purpose,” McDonald shares, emphasizing the profound personal and academic fulfillment she has found at JCSU.
Benefits of HBCU Child Care Programs
The advantages of child care programs at HBCUs extend far beyond individual success stories. These initiatives contribute to:
- Increased Enrollment and Retention: By making education more accessible to parents, HBCUs can attract and retain a diverse student body, including those who might otherwise be excluded due to child care responsibilities.
- Enhanced Academic Performance: Reduced stress and financial strain related to child care allow student parents to concentrate more effectively on their studies, leading to improved academic outcomes.
- Economic Empowerment: By supporting parents in completing their education, HBCUs play a vital role in fostering economic mobility for families and communities.
- Stronger Campus Communities: Including student parents enriches the campus environment with diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all students.
Finding HBCUs with Child Care Programs
For prospective students seeking HBCUs that offer child care support, resources are available to aid in their search. Exploring the websites of individual HBCUs is a crucial first step. Specifically, looking for sections related to student support services, family resources, or financial aid may reveal information about child care programs. Additionally, national databases and organizations focused on higher education access and student parent support can provide comprehensive lists and information about HBCUs with child care assistance.
Conclusion
HBCUs like Johnson C. Smith University are setting a commendable standard in higher education by recognizing and addressing the child care needs of their student parents. Through programs like CCAMPIS and other institutional initiatives, these universities are not only breaking down financial barriers but also creating nurturing environments where student parents can thrive academically and personally. As the demand for accessible and equitable education grows, the leadership of HBCUs in supporting student parents serves as an inspiring model for all institutions committed to inclusivity and student success.
