The Child Care Council of Suffolk recently hosted its annual “Breakfast of Champions,” recognizing Haugland Group CEO Billy Haugland II for his leadership in expanding child care support for working families.
With its mission to strengthen early childhood systems and partner with employers who also believe in affordable, high-quality child care across the region, the Child Care Council of Suffolk consists of a key group of like-minded, forward-thinking individuals.
Upon being welcomed into the child care crisis-combating fold, Haugland delivered remarks that underscored the growing challenges facing Long Island families, who continue to navigate rising economic pressures and annual child care costs that can exceed $24,000.
He emphasized the need for companies across the region to rethink how they support their workforce. “Child care is not a perk or a luxury—it is infrastructure,” he said.
“It’s the system that allows every other system to function. When families are forced to choose between opportunity and affordability, our workforce and our economy lose. Employers have a responsibility, and an opportunity, to help close that gap.”
On January 1st, 2026, the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) limit will rise from $5,000 to $7,500, giving eligible families up to $1,000 in annual savings.
The Council noted that many employers may be unaware of the increase and have yet to update their HR and benefits materials for 2026 enrollment.
“The increase in the Dependent Care FSA limit is a rare opportunity for families to see meaningful financial relief, but that relief only happens if employers take action,” said Jennifer Rojas, Executive Director of the Child Care Council of Suffolk. “Our goal is to ensure every Long Island family can take full advantage of this change, especially as infant care costs continue to average more than $24,000 a year.”
The Council noted that when employers lead on child care benefits, it drives broader systems-level change, stabilizing the workforce and strengthening Long Island’s economy.
“Supporting child care isn’t just the right thing to do for families,” Haugland added. “It strengthens our workforce, reduces turnover, and creates long-term stability for the entire region.”