In East Hampton, a federal child care desert, working families face significant challenges accessing affordable child care amid high living costs. Despite the area's reputation as wealthy, nearly 12 percent of residents live in poverty, struggling with limited options. Parents juggle jobs and informal care to survive. The American child care system, already described as 'crumbling,' has worsened since the expiration of federal pandemic aid in 2023, resulting in soaring costs that exceed inflation. The community grapples with the reality of raising children in such an environment.
The Hamptons are often seen as a playground for the wealthy, but for many working families, life is becoming increasingly unsustainable due to high costs and limited child care options.
East Hampton is a federally designated child care desert with nearly 12 percent of residents living in poverty, among the highest rates in Suffolk County as per local officials.
Many parents juggle multiple jobs and rely on informal day cares, as the rising cost of living and housing pushes families further from their jobs and support systems.
The expiration of federal pandemic aid in 2023 has worsened the already crumbling American child care system, leading to increased costs that outpace inflation.
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