FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

May 10, 2024 

Contact: 

Kate Gonsalves, (503) 428-7292 

delc.media@delc.oregon.gov 

Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care Celebrates Child Care Provider Appreciation Day 

SALEM, ORE. –The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) celebrates the work of providers on Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.  

“It’s important to pause to give recognition where recognition is due,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee, while speaking to providers in Woodburn. “. We see and appreciate the positive impact you make to children, to families, to our economy, and our future. You are changing lives every day – Oregon wouldn’t work without you.” 

Governor Tina Kotek issued a statewide proclamation officially designating May 10, 2024 as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. The Day is celebrated annually across the country on the Friday before Mother’s Day as a way to say “thank you” to the educators and care professionals positively shaping the lives of young children. 

Provider Appreciation Day recognizes the child care workforce and their important contributions to young children, families, and our communities. The pandemic shined a spotlight on what so many parents have known for years – child care providers play an invaluable role in our communities by giving families a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for their own young children.  

“Ensuring providers have professional development opportunities and pathways to stay in this field is paramount,” said Chatterjee. “Thank you for playing a critical role in educating and empowering young children in supportive, culturally competent environments that make it possible for families to access care and to work. 

Today we celebrate you and offer our deep gratitude.” 

Some families are choosing to celebrate Provider Appreciation Day with a card or flowers for their care provider. Community members are encouraged to tag DELC on social media with pictures or words of appreciation. 

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About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care 

The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC. You can also connect with DELC on Facebook or sign up for news alerts and updates.