Sara Dest wants a segment of society that often gets overlooked to get some kudos.
The working mom, who is a paralegal in Lycoming County, believes not enough recognition is given to family members who fill in the role as daycare providers.
Dest pointed toward an economy that continues to spiral out of control for most Americans as reasons why - now more than ever - the family offering such parachutes for young families is necessary.
"We need to recognize our families - including parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles and close friends - who babysit or care for children of working families," said Dest, whose son Branson turns 1 on Sept. 4.
She credits her family and others in her life who are caring for Branson while she and her boyfriend work as the prime factor in their ability to stay financially afloat.
"They spend 10 hours a week of their time and money," she said. "All I can say is, 'Thanks, I really appreciate it.' "
Despite living in a two-income household, after paying a mortgage and utility bills, Dest said the daycare option isn't something she can envision at this time in her life.
"It would be one-fourth of my paycheck," she said.
Her boyfriend works the second shift and she works the first, so it is vital that her son be cared for, but that only happens because of her extended family. "It's nice they get to spend more time with him," she said. "They don't ask for money. I think it also brings together families."
