Dr. DeShonda Jennings is redefining what it means to be an advocate for children and families. With a legacy rooted in passion, education, and empowerment, this trailblazing childcare expert has touched lives across the globe as a business owner, coach, author, and international speaker. From founding DJ Shining Stars Daycare LLC® to mentoring countless childcare providers, Dr. Jennings has dedicated her career to transforming early education and creating sustainable futures for families and educators alike.

Several Central Virginia childcare directors and owners told CBS 6 they have been waiting weeks or months for the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) to process job candidates' fingerprint background checks, which is hindering the hiring of much-needed staff.

Accessible, affordable child care is a critical need in Emporia-Greensville and across the commonwealth. Thrive Birth to Five is leading the charge to bring quality early childhood education to the area.

Thousands of children are stuck on waitlists. Last year, child care experts predicted tens of thousands of children in Virginia would lose access to child care when federal funding that had been subsidizing care for thousands of low-income families during the COVID-19 pandemic expired in the summer of 2024.

Robust public investments can lift the weight of the child care affordability crisis off the safety net’s shoulders.