If affordable and available housing is the number-one community-level problem facing many people in Superiorland, especially young people and families, affordable and available child care might rank a close number two.

Most of us know of young people and families struggling with the issue: either they can’t find child care they can afford or they can’t find it at all, period.

This sets up all kinds of problems relating to people working outside the home, transportation and medical matters, to name just a few.

All of that said, we were pleased to note recently that the Marquette chapter of the American Association of University Women will host a program on the state of child care in Marquette County at 7 p.m Thursday at the Women’s Federated Clubhouse, located at 104 W. Ridge St., in Marquette.

According to an event press release, the program will feature Christopher Germain, CEO of the Lake Superior Community Partnership and Greta Hill, executive director of Little Friends Children’s Center, a non-profit childcare facility in Negaunee.

Attendees can expect to hear insights from local community leaders regarding the range of child care needs experienced throughout our area and impacts on families, children, and employers.

In addition, details will be shared about new initiatives currently being undertaken in the region to increase child care providers and resources to support them.

This event is inclusive, welcoming members, non-members, guests, and representatives from other organizations. There is no fee to attend.

Seriouslty consider attending, if not for yourself, someone you know.

We think it’s going to be very worthwhile.