In communities across Missouri, family caregivers work hard day in and day out to put their parents, spouses and loved ones first. In Washington, President Trump has a solution — a federal tax credit — to put money back into these family caregivers’ pockets and give them much-needed financial relief.

Family caregivers play a critical role in American society. Missouri is fortunate to be home to 800,000 of them. These men and women do it all. They drive their loved ones to doctor appointments, pick up groceries and medications, prepare meals, assist with bathing and dressing, take care of household chores — the list goes on and on. Our country needs these family caregivers. Without the millions of dollars of unpaid, around-the-clock labor they provide, more older Americans would be forced out of the comfort of their own homes and into costly nursing homes — with the government and taxpayers footing the bill. Supporting family caregivers is an economic necessity.

As Advocacy Director of AARP Missouri, I have connected with many of our state’s family caregivers. They come from all walks of life, and their personal experiences vary, but one thing is clear: despite their important role, family caregivers need more support.

Family caregivers spend an average of $7,200 each year out of their own pockets to care for their loved ones. Many have had to reduce their hours at work or leave their jobs completely in order to give their loved ones the time and attention they need — all while their expenses climb higher and higher.

As a result, family caregivers in Missouri and across the country are using up their personal savings, dipping into retirement accounts and even sacrificing their own bills and necessities to ensure their moms, dads and spouses have what they need to live comfortably and safely. President Trump’s caregiving tax credit, which would put money back into family caregivers’ pockets to offset the costs they’ve so selflessly taken on, can help.

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As more of our population ages, we can’t leave this growing problem unaddressed. Family caregivers need our support — and quickly. With President Trump’s tax credit, Missouri’s hardworking family caregivers will be able to strike a better balance between their caregiving responsibilities and their regular jobs. Plus, it’ll allow more families to stay together at home, where they want to be.

For years, Missouri’s family caregivers have been doing the right thing by stepping up to put their families first and help keep their older loved ones at home. Now, it’s Congress’ turn to do the same and include a family caregiver tax credit in the tax package.