We hear a lot about family values in Idaho. All families have values that they want their children to learn: respect, honesty, politeness, kindness, religious values etc. But what about valuing families? What are the values that we as Americans can promote to help families? The following are some of the important ways that we as citizens can help families thrive: an income that will provide shelter, food, clothing; a living wage so that it is not necessary to work two or three jobs to provide the necessities; early childhood education and licensed day care facilities that do not cost as much or more than the income from a job; affordable health care so that families do not lose their home because of a chronic illness in the family; flex time at work that will allow workers whenever possible to plan their daily schedules to include family time; paid sick and family leave so that a worker does not lose a day’s wages to either see a doctor or care for a sick child or parent. Money issues cause major problems for families. We need to help families thrive.
Sue Sharp, Boise
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