PRESS RELEASE - The Washington State Department of Commerce Awards MasonEDC with Child Care Partnership Grant (CCPG)
Mason County, WA – October 10, 2025 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tiana Dunbar, External Affairs Manager | 360-426-2276
The Washington State Department of Commerce Awards MasonEDC with Child Care Partnership Grant (CCPG)
The Mason County Economic Development Council in partnership with Mason Matters was awarded Washington State Department of Commerce funding through the Child Care Partnership Grant. Child Care Partnership Grants support development of local strategic plans to expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare. The number of available childcare slots in Mason County is declining while demand continues to grow.
According to the United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data, 26 percent of Mason County households fall within the ALICE population, with an additional 9 percent living below the federal poverty level. Nearly 50 percent of Hispanic households and 75 percent American Indian households are living below the ALICE threshold. Additionally, 70 percent of single-female-headed households with children fall below the ALICE threshold. ALICE data also shows that childcare costs in the region range from $738 to more than $1,600 per month, representing a significant financial burden for many working families.
“This award underscores the vital role childcare plays in supporting both families and our local economy,” said Kevin Shutty, Executive Director of MasonEDC. “With the support of the Department of Commerce and other local partners, we will lead an inclusive engagement process that reflects the diversity of Mason County. By partnering with Mason Matters, we can expand our reach and ensure equitable outreach, building childcare solutions that meet the real needs of our community and strengthen the foundation for future growth.”
The Child Care Partnership Grant aims to assist with strategic planning and developing innovative solutions to provide additional childcare slots, enhancing childcare access for families across Mason County.
“Childcare is more than an economic issue, it’s a public health priority that supports healthy families and resilient communities,” said Julie Knott, Executive Director of Mason Matters. “Together with MasonEDC, we will listen to families and design solutions that strengthen both well-being and opportunity in Mason County.”
Opportunities for public participation will begin this fall.
About MasonEDC
MasonEDC is the state designated associate development organization for Mason County that furthers the counties economic development goals. Our mission is to expand and diversify the economy throughout Mason County by retaining and recruiting jobs, growing sustainable industry clusters, and promoting global competitiveness.
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Masonedc.org
