ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Mayor Tim Keller is encouraging Albuquerque’s faith communities to help address the city’s child care shortage by opening available space in churches, temples, mosques, and other places of worship for child care programs.
The proposal was unveiled Wednesday during the City’s Annual Faith Leaders Breakfast at the Albuquerque Rail Yards, where clergy members, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates gathered to discuss ways faith organizations can continue supporting local families.
Keller told attendees that faith communities have long played a key role in serving Albuquerque residents and said existing facilities could help increase access to child care for working families.
“Faith has always moved our city forward,” Keller said. “Our faith communities can help turn shared spaces into opportunities for families who need access to childcare.”
The mayor’s request builds on ongoing city efforts to make better use of underutilized public buildings and community centers. Under the proposal, faith organizations would explore whether unused classrooms, meeting halls, or other spaces could be adapted for child care services.
City officials say improving access to reliable child care remains a challenge for many Albuquerque families, particularly those balancing work schedules and child care costs.
Faisal Sukhyani of the Ismaili Council of Central USA said faith communities have an important role to play in addressing those challenges.
“For many, finding reliable child care can mean the difference between being able to work and having to stay home,” Sukhyani said.
The annual breakfast also highlighted existing partnerships between the City of Albuquerque, faith-based organizations, and nonprofit groups working to provide resources and support services throughout the community.
Officials said the event reinforces the city’s commitment to collaborating with faith organizations on issues affecting Albuquerque residents and families.
