Carlton County is located in North East Minnesota, just south of Duluth. It shares its eastern border with Wisconsin. Part of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Reservation lies within Carlton County. Though the majority (around 92%) of the population is white, around 6% is Native American. It is home to just over 35,000 people and is one of the fastest growing counties in NE Minnesota. The rivers and parks in Carlton County are a natural draw for residents and tourists alike.

 

The median income for families in the county is around $48,000. Increasingly there are jobs available for workers, but many potential employees may not be able to access child care. It is estimated that the child care shortage creates a 13% reduction in productivity.

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Because of population growth and a strong local economy the need for child care has increased. Several years ago, Carlton County had around 80 family child care providers. As of early June 2019 there were 47 licensed family providers. Families and providers report that infant care is especially difficult to secure. There is an estimated need for 662 additional licensed slots for children under the age of 5 where all parents are in the work force.