EAST GRAND FORKS — East Grand Forks and Polk County are a child care desert.

In 2024, there was a need for 252 spots in East Grand Forks and an overall deficit in Polk County, according to a supply-demand gap survey done by First Children’s Finance Minnesota. As grant money has run out and expenses grow, the problem could get worse.

Now, the county, licensors and providers are searching for ways to end the stigma around child care, inspire more to join the industry and retain those who have been unable to stay open.

“I just think there has to be more appreciation for the people doing the work. I just see more opportunities to complain rather than work together on something,” said Ann Holub, Parent Aware coordinator at Tri-Valley Opportunity Council.

It’s a problem in Minnesota and par

See Full Page