My name is Machaela Jackson, and the story I am about to share is not just mine, it's mirrored in the lives of countless others across our beloved country. I am 27 years old, raising four beautiful children with my husband, Aaron, who spends 12 hours a day, laboring at the Appleton Airport to create items of luxury for billionaires. 

In October, our family welcomed our youngest member. Her arrival was truly a bundle of joy but also the beginning of a difficult financial and emotional journey. Despite Aaron's tireless work, the economics just do not add up. The cost of child care is simply too high for me to re-enter the workforce to supplement our income. Despite the fact that I have two college degrees, The cost of placing my two year old and my two month old in childcare account for over half (if not more) of what my pay check would be.

We find ourselves painted into a corner. It's time to voice the urgent need for critical reforms: extended, paid maternity and paternity leave, lower child care costs, and a higher income cap for government assistance.

In countries like Sweden, parents receive 480 days of parental leave at around 80% of their normal pay. Following this model would grant American parents the much-needed time to bond with their newborns without fear of economic instability. 

The US Census Bureau reports that on average, the cost of childcare has nearly tripled over the last 30 years, adding a hefty financial burden on struggling families. By working on legislation for subsidized childcare costs, we can enable people like me to join the workforce again, contributing to our economy while simultaneously ensuring our children have quality early education.

Finally, a higher income limit for government assistance will aid families, who like us, are barely making ends meet.

These changes can provide families with a fighting chance—the chance to strive without ceaseless strain, the chance to raise our children without pervasive fear of economic instability. This isn't just about my family and me—this is about every American family facing the same struggle. 

Join me in calling for change to these crucial policies. In unity, we can help pave a way for a more compassionate, inclusive society. Please, sign this petition.