Companies expanding leave programs to support families
Being a working parent is no easy job. For families with newborns that can be especially true. Now, a number of companies are stepping up to help by expanding paid leave for both parents. (Courtesy: MGN)
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Being a working parent is no easy job. For families with newborns that can be especially true. Now, a number of companies are stepping up to help by expanding paid leave for both parents.
Supporters of the effort say this is allowing parents that needed time to support each other, without having to stress over finances. Also stressing that companies are starting to realize that if workers are happy at home, they're more likely to be happy at work and more productive.
Chelsea Valentine-Heilbronner knows the importance of quality time. She told ABC6 that she recently left her job in retail management to care for her two young sons.
"I resigned from my position, so I can spend more time and be a stay at home mom," said Valentine-Heilbronner.
She told ABC6 that a parent's job is literally, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
"I think it's very hard for mothers at 6 weeks or 8 weeks to go right back to work," said Valentine-Heilbronner.
For working parents, the pressure of responsibilities at home, along with staying on track on the job can be stressful. Companies are starting to address that.
Just this week, Target announced the company is expanding its paid leave for parents for part-time and salaried workers. Under the changes, employees with a new child receiving double the amount of paid time off. That's in addition to the current medical leave.
This is also an issue of high importance for many city and county governments.
Franklin County Auditor, Michael Stinziano's office extended paid family leave as well.
Workers can take up to 6-weeks, time can be used to care for a newborn or tend to a family with medical issues.
"It's really the right thing to do. If things come up we want them to be able to dedicate to their families, so they have the right work-life balance," said Stinziano.
Valentine-Heilbronner for one is certainly glad employers are starting to see the value and importance of giving more support to families.
For many companies, the new policies not only involve taking care of a new child but just like the Franklin County Auditor's Office they're also putting a focus on caring for a sick parent. Something that's also a deep impact for many families.
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