Advocacy begins with data, and Georgia’s early‑childhood research hub GEEARS is putting that principle into action. In a series of fresh reports, the organization is equipping lawmakers, employers and community leaders with concrete evidence that investing in children ages birth through five strengthens families, the workforce and the state’s economy.
Bipartisan poll shows broad support for early‑childhood investment
GEEARS conducted a statewide survey of more than 600 likely voters just before the 2026 general election. The poll, described as bipartisan, found a clear majority of Georgians—across political affiliations—favor state funding for essential early‑childhood services such as quality, affordable child care. One pollster noted that respondents view this support as “not just a family issue, but an economic issue.” The findings give elected officials a data‑driven mandate to prioritize early‑learning programs.
Rural‑south child‑care study highlights local challenges
Working with partners in Mississippi and Missouri and the Southern Education Foundation, GEEARS completed focus groups, interviews and surveys that illuminate the realities of early care in the rural South. The report amplifies the voices of child‑care providers, educators, families and local businesses, offering practical recommendations for policymakers and employers seeking to expand access to quality child care in underserved areas.
Readiness Radar: a one‑stop data hub for families and officials
GEEARS and Get Georgia Reading have launched the Readiness Radar, an interactive mapping tool that aggregates education, health, housing, economic and demographic data at the neighborhood, county and state levels. The platform’s Early Childhood Profiles give a snapshot of child‑well‑being indicators, helping legislators and community groups identify trends and target resources where they are needed most.
“Voices from the Field” captures lived experience
The organization’s ongoing “Voices from the Field” initiative gathers insights from families and child‑serving professionals through surveys, focus groups and interviews. Recent participation in Stanford’s RAPID Survey Project will provide high‑frequency data on material hardship, including access to food, housing, child care and health care. GEEARS plans to use these findings to shape policy proposals that reflect the real‑world needs of Georgia’s youngest residents.
Why the research matters for Georgia families
By translating data into stories, GEEARS helps decision‑makers see the direct link between early‑childhood investment and long‑term economic health. Employers can use the research to justify paid‑leave and child‑care assistance programs, while local leaders can point to successful examples from other communities that have prioritized families. The organization’s work underscores the belief that strong families are the foundation of a thriving state.
How to access the reports
All of GEEARS’s new findings—including the bipartisan poll, the rural‑south child‑care study, the Readiness Radar tool and the latest “Voices from the Field” data—are available online. Interested readers can click the links provided in the original release to explore the full reports and download datasets for further analysis.
GEEARS invites philanthropists, policymakers, businesses and ordinary citizens to support its mission of providing reliable, family‑focused research that guides Georgia toward a brighter future for its youngest children.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
