In a recent meeting of the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, pressing issues surrounding child care and maternal health took center stage, highlighting the challenges faced by families in the region. As community members gathered under the bright lights of the county hall, the conversation turned to the stark realities of child care accessibility and the alarming rates of infant mortality in Humboldt County.

A representative shared that while Humboldt County has made strides in child care availability—rising from 24% to 35% of families able to find care since 2018—significant gaps remain. Approximately one in three families still struggle to secure child care, a situation exacerbated by the limited state funding for subsidized care. Currently, only 11% of families who qualify for subsidized child care slots can access them, leaving nearly two million children statewide on waiting lists.

The financial burden of child care is particularly heavy in Humboldt, where the cost can consume over 74% of a median woman's salary. This staggering figure is compounded by the fact that Humboldt County has one of the highest rates of women living in poverty in California. The representative emphasized the need for state-level support, such as child tax credits, to alleviate these pressures on families.

The meeting also addressed the concerning statistics surrounding maternal and child health. Despite some positive indicators, Humboldt County reported the highest infant mortality rate among 44 assessed counties. This troubling statistic calls for a broader focus on maternal health issues, particularly for marginalized communities, where disparities in health outcomes are evident.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the financial challenges faced by First 5 Humboldt, which has seen a significant reduction in funding due to declining tobacco tax revenues. This shortfall threatens essential services for young children and families, underscoring the need for sustained investment in early childhood programs.

As the discussion concluded, the representative urged the board to advocate for Humboldt County's needs at the state level, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing these critical issues. The meeting served as a reminder of the ongoing struggles families face in securing basic necessities and the vital role of community support in fostering a healthier future for all.