Statement from Women's Foundation on IKEA Policy

Kansas City, MO -- Wendy Doyle, President & CEO of Women's Foundation released the following statement on IKEA USA's announcement of expanded paid parental leave:

We commend IKEA for their leadership in expanding paid parental leave for their employees and hope to see more employers follow suit.  Our research shows that, among other things, paid family leave can reduce the percentage of those who receive public assistance or food stamps in the year following a child’s birth, encourage women to stay in the workforce, and allow fathers to take a more active role in caretaking. Expanding paid leave policies is good for families, businesses and the economy; it's simply the right thing to do.