This blog post was written by Whitney Nakamura, United Way of King County Early Learning Impact Manager.

Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care is an informal, home-based child care arrangement. FFN caregivers contribute to the success and well-being of many children, families, and communities in our region.

September 13^th-18^th is FFN Appreciation Week.

FFNs are an essential part of our care system.

FFN caregivers often help new families transition into parenthood. They are critical to ensuring families can balance work or school commitments, maintain their mental and physical health, and navigate new routines and sleep schedules.

Because of FFN care, children can learn and develop with a familiar and compassionate adult. Families can maintain work and other commitments. Older children can participate fully in school and other activities. Essential workers can support our region. And local businesses and communities can thrive.

During times of terror and crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or this recent surge in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, FFN caregivers act quickly and creatively to address emergent needs and fill gaps. Despite the immense challenges and loss, these are also times of incredible compassion, cooperation, and community solutions.

United Way of King County recognizes the important role of FFN caregivers, and we invest in building their individual capacity and their community connections.

Since 2018, United Way of King County has invested in the ParentChild+ (PC+) Home-Based Child Care (HBCC) Program. We support 7 community organizations that enroll FFN providers and Family Child Care (FCC) providers into the HBCC program. Matched with a PC+ Early Learning Specialist Home Visitor, these providers receive personalized support and professional development through 48 home visits, including coaching, high-quality books and educational materials, resources for providers and families, and community referrals and cultural connections.

FFN care is the most common type of care for young children.

You probably know FFN caregivers, and you certainly know people who have benefited from FFN care. Please join us in celebrating FFN Appreciation Week. This is an opportunity to spread awareness and to celebrate these important care providers.