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Archived News Release--Caution: information may be out of date.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

WB Press Release: Women's Bureau Links Businesses as Partners in Child Care [01/22/1999]

For more information call: (202) 219-6611

Businesses which have experience setting up child care programs are being linked to ones just getting started as part of the Women's Bureau's Business to Business Mentoring Initiative on Child Care. The bureau, part of the U.S. Department of Labor, has a web site where businesses may sign up.

"We are asking businesses which have successful child care experiences to volunteer to mentor businesses that are just beginning the process," said Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman. "That way the beginners can avoid the pitfalls and save on costs. Experienced businesses also know that child care contributes to the bottom line and they can help other companies overcome their concerns."

The web site provides information on the child care initiative and sign up information for businesses, both those who want help starting child care programs and those willing to be mentors. The site may be accessed at http://www.dol.gov/wb/. Or businesses may call the bureau at 800-827-5335.

"Employers benefit when they provide work site child care," acting Women's Bureau Director Dolores Crockett said. "Companies that provide child care for workers have experienced increased productivity and less absenteeism and tardiness. They also find that they attract and retain quality employees."

Nearly 30 million families have children under the age of 14. In more than half of these families, either both parents work or the family is headed by a single working parent.

Archived News Release--Caution: information may be out of date.