Greater Gallatin United Way Consolidates Efforts with Child Care Connections to Strengthen Child Care and Early Learning Programs

BOZEMAN — Greater Gallatin United Way (GGUW) is excited to announce the integration of Child Care Connections' (CCC) remaining programs to continue essential early learning support and advocacy. This move comes after CCC's loss of state funding and reinforces GGUW's commitment to addressing the region's growing child care needs.

With families in Gallatin County spending 23% of their household income on child care—well above the recommended 7%—GGUW is stepping in to ease this financial strain. The lack of affordable child care also impacts local businesses, with 40% of Montana companies reporting challenges in hiring and retaining employees. Additionally, 1 in 3 children begin kindergarten without essential language skills, putting them at a disadvantage. GGUW is committed to expanding access to quality, affordable childcare through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships to address these critical needs.

"This is a pivotal moment for our community," said Kim Hall, CEO of Greater Gallatin United Way. "We are excited to build on CCC’s legacy and expand our early childhood initiatives. This collaboration is a powerful example of how working together strengthens our community and allows us to meet the evolving needs of families."

Greater Gallatin United Way will focus on innovative, community-focused approaches to address the child care challenges in the region. Some key initiatives include:

Gallatin Early Childhood Community Council (ECCC): Leading the coalition of community partners to build a comprehensive system of early childhood services and resource referral for families, ensuring all children from birth to age eight have the opportunity for a healthy and enriching start.

CHILD Task Force: Collaborating with community leaders and providers to develop innovative local solutions that improve child care access and affordability.

Employer-Supported Child Care Initiatives: Partnering with businesses to explore sustainable child care models that support working families while helping employers create lasting child care solutions.

By integrating CCC's programs with GGUW’s resources and future-focused initiatives, this partnership will drive long-term change in the region’s child care landscape. GGUW is committed to creating a more accessible, sustainable system that supports families and strengthens the future of early learning in the community.