How OLÉ Helped Secure Universal Child Care in New Mexico

In this episode, Messellech “Selley” Abebe chats with Matthew Henderson and Olga Grays about New Mexico’s historic move to make child care free for all families. Henderson is the Executive Director of the OLÉ Education Fund, and Grays is a leader with the organization as well as a veteran child care provider and social worker. Together, they explore the years of advocacy that led to this change in the state’s constitution, the challenges of putting universal child care into practice, and the ways it strengthens children, parents, and early educators alike. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of accessible child care, the dedication of caregivers, and how public policy can shape stronger, healthier communities for the next generation.  To learn more about Olé New Mexico and their work, you can follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.  Want to keep digging into the real-life impact policy decisions have on children? Here’s some of what First Focus on Children has published recently: The Trump Administration's Freeze on Funding for Child Care and Other Services Punishes America’s Children The State of the Union: Leaving Children and Families Behind Trump Administration’s Plan to Eliminate Head Start Threatens Child Care, Families and Economy To join the conversation, follow First Focus on Children on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Send us comments on thoughts via email: [email protected] Find us on Twitter/X: @SpeakingOfKids and @First_Focus Want to be a voice for kids? Become an Ambassador for Children here. To support our work and this podcast, please consider donating to First Focus on Children here.