Child care providers in Arizona and across the country are struggling to remain open during the pandemic. Fewer students and higher costs paint an unsustainable picture for many in early childhood education — even as parents who are also frontline workers need somewhere to send their kids.

A new survey from the National Association for the Education of Young Children shows more than half — 54% — of respondents said they are currently losing money to stay open. And nearly all of them said they are paying additional costs for cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment.

Linda Pauley is the director of Risen Savior Lutheran Church’s child care program in Chandler. The Show spoke with her about how hard it’s been to continue operating for the last nine months.

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