Child care workers across Connecticut held rallies today to draw attention to what they say is the "impending collapse of the child care industry."

At least eight rallies were planned across the state.

One of the rallies took place at Seaside Park in Bridgeport. Other rallies were held in Stratford, Stamford, and Danbury.

Child care workers across the state say they are joining forces to send a message to lawmakers.

The coalition Child Care for Connecticut's Future is sponsoring the rallies.

The group is using the hashtag #morningwithoutchildcare to get the word out as some facilities may be on a delayed openings according to a flyer promoting the event.

The coalition is calling on state lawmakers for $700 million in funding.

The coalition says the money would go toward pay increases to retain high quality staff, increased access to the state's Care4Kids program, and the renovation of facilities to expand capacity-- among other things.