Child care costs are consuming a significant portion of family incomes across America. For married couples, child care expenses account for about 13% of their income, while single parents face a much steeper financial burden.

In fact, single parents often spend more than half of their take-home pay on child care expenses, according to research by WalletHub.

"You could average $500 a week for 2 kids. For one kid, $250 a week," said Antuan Hill, owner of Little Dreamers day care center, which offers care on a budget for families who can't afford standard rates.

Many parents find themselves in difficult situations when balancing work and child care needs.

"There's a reason I don't use day care. I cannot imagine that on top of my bills right now," said Samantha Parker, a mom who relies on

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