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Residents urge Saco council to expand affordable child care and support for foster youth
Summary
Two public commenters described barriers to child care and instability in foster care—calling for expanded subsidies, reduced waiting lists and more foster homes—and asked the council and community to view these needs as economic and social priorities.
During the public-comment period on June 8, two residents urged the council to take stronger action on child care affordability and foster-care supports.
Anique, who identified herself as a member of the 2026 Natural Helpers cohort and as a Saco resident who emigrated from Burundi, described personal barriers to employment tied to high child care costs and long waiting lists for assistance. "Child care remains extremely expensive, especially for families who are just starting their lives here," she told the council, and she recommended expanding subsidies, broadening eligibility for assistance and shortening waiting lists so parents can participate in the workforce.
Katya Cabella, who said she had lived in foster care and now works with children and families, asked the community to see foster youth as children with potential rather than only through the lens of trauma. She described instability in placements, including some children placed in hotels due to a shortage of foster homes, and urged patience, stability and supportive services so foster youth can thrive.
Neither public comment prompted formal action at the meeting, but both speakers asked the council to prioritize solutions that reduce barriers for families and strengthen supports for children in care.
