By Kenneth Reece | Pastor, Saint Paul Church | Special to The OBSERVER

Fatherhood is one of the greatest blessings of my life. I’m a father to three adult children and have been present for every one of their births — each one a miracle after the heartbreak of miscarriage. I took time off work to be there because I knew how much it mattered. Being present — truly showing up — is what defines fatherhood to me.

Fatherhood is about love, commitment, and consistency. It’s about being there — not just for the first steps, but for the hard talks, the victories and the moments that seem small but shape a child’s world. Whether I’m at home or leading my congregation, I carry the lessons I’ve learned as a father into everything I do. 

This Father’s Day, I speak directly to other dads and say: your presence is powerful. And in California, support exists to help you be there when it matters most. California’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program, administered by the Employment Development Department (EDD), is a resource everyone should know about. Since its launch in 2004, PFL has paid more than $17 billion in benefits to workers who needed time off to care for loved ones — whether for a sick family member or to welcome a new child (newborn, adopted or fostered).

Today, nearly half of all new child bonding claims are filed by men. That’s progress.

Too often in my ministry, I see the consequences of absent fathers. Not always by choice — sometimes by circumstances. Time off can mean lost wages, and many fathers feel forced to choose between family and providing. But EDD’s PFL, now covering up to 90 percent of a worker’s wage, helps ease that burden with much needed financial support so dads can bond with their children without sacrificing income.

That’s a real relief for working families. If you’re a wage earner and see “CASDI” on your pay stub, you’re likely covered. And I urge every father in our community to embrace their role fully, with the support and resources available through PFL. This Father’s Day, take the time to learn about your rights and benefits. Visit Paid Family Leave for Fathers on the EDD website to learn about what is available.

California believes in the power of presence. The State’s PFL program makes it possible. For our children, our families and our future — let’s continue to show up.

For more information, visit edd.ca.gov.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pastor Kenneth Reece is the Lead Pastor at Saint Paul Church in Sacramento.