Childcare as Social Infrastructure: Access, Care Work, and Family Policy in
Albuquerque, NM
Photo: Lale Arikoglu (2021)
Children are the future of America, but America was not built for children. Families struggle to find affordable and accessible childcare, as day care and preschool prices have risen roughly 41% over the past decade. Today, parents and caregivers are fed into a frustrating childcare system filled with endless waiting lists, infrastructure constraints, and labor tensions. As families navigate this broken process, children suffer. Childcare affects all aspects of a child’s life—from the development of their motor skills to their future socioeconomic status. In 2025, New Mexico made history by becoming the first state to provide universal, no-cost childcare. This program will explore this landmark legislation, serve alongside Albuquerque community orgs, and engage deeply with the complexities of childcare.
Meet the co-leads:
Naomi Hermosillo
Hi! I’m Naomi Hermosillo, a junior studying Human Biology from the Central Valley.
I love learning about how health and medicine intersect with other areas of life, and childcare is one major point of contact I’m passionate about. As someone who was the primary babysitter for my nieces and nephews, the topic of childcare is also deeply personal to me. I can’t wait to learn more about New Mexico’s approach to universal childcare and to have the chance to engage in service alongside you all!
Katie Xin
Hey all! I’m Katie Xin, a junior studying economics and design from Palm Springs, California.
I help run Stanford Abundance, our chapter of a national movement building a more abundant future for all Americans. ♡ I grew up as a caretaker for my younger brother, so childcare is something I’ve thought about all my life. I’m passionate about all things policy, tech for social good, and teaching. Super excited to head to Albuquerque for a service-filled break!