LIMA, Ohio-Groundwork Ohio, a state-wide advocacy group focused on improving young children’s well-being, recently concluded its “Roadshow Listening Tour” in Lima, marking its final stop. The group gathered input from community leaders and childcare professionals regarding issues affecting children from birth to age 5. Mayors Sharetta Smith of Lima and Christina Muryn of Findlay expressed concerns about poverty and early childhood education during the event. A key issue highlighted was the lack of access to affordable, quality childcare, which is considered a significant barrier for working families. Additional concerns included access to healthcare and preventing infant and maternal mortality. Groundwork Ohio plans to compile the feedback to create a policy agenda aimed at securing funding through the governor’s executive budget in 2025.
