Park City childcare program highlighted as national model

Michelle Downard speaking on a childcare panel Wednesday, Dec. 4. Photo: Park City Municipal

WASHINGTON — Park City’s childcare assistance program gained national attention Wednesday at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural National Childcare Innovation Summit, where it was showcased as a model for other communities.

The city’s Needs-Based Childcare Scholarship Program was featured as a case study on the newly launched Employer Childcare Navigator website. Michelle Downard, Park City’s resident advocate, presented the city’s approach to sustainable childcare solutions at the summit.

The program, launched in late 2023 through a partnership between Park City Municipal and childcare network Upwards, has provided financial assistance to 104 families for childcare costs.

“To be recognized for innovation around such an important community need is a great honor,” Park City Mayor Nann Worel said.

The website, developed through collaboration between the U.S. Chamber Foundation and Executives Partnering to Invest in Children, aims to serve as a resource for communities facing daycare access and affordability challenges.