Guests: Angel Berry, Leah Hibl, Mayor Ryan Sorenson, Mike Close

Sheboygan has a few nicknames: The Malibu of the Midwest, Bratwurst Capital of the World, and City of the Four C’s: chairs, cheese, churches, and children, to name a few. One of those pillars is in peril - children. In Sheboygan and all across the state, childcare providers are struggling to keep their doors open, and parents are having a difficult time affording the care their family needs. Federal funds that bridge the gap will expire in June and, without additional funds, up to 70% of childcare centers in rural areas could be forced to close their doors. The fallout will be devastating for families, communities, and the entire state.

I sat down with Sheboygan Mayor Ryan Sorenson, Alder Mike Close, School Board member Leah Hibl, and childcare provider Angel Berry to discuss the current state of childcare in Sheboygan, the looming crisis when funds dry up, and the anticipated social and economic impact spawned by the loss of childcare in their traditional and family-friendly community.