UC Childcare Facilities See New Grant Program As A Need

Upper Cumberland childcare facilities want to take part in a new grant program funding projects that increase capacity.

Some $1 million allocated to the region through the Childcare Creation Program. Nana’s Childcare Owner Debra Anderson said as the sole licensed provider in Clay County, there is a need for more childcare slots.

“Especially in this area,” Anderson said. “We have a daycare here in Clay County, and I’ve had it here for about 25 years. We’ve seen very little grant money up until some of the COVID.”

Anderson said her facility has been at max capacity for some time. Anderson said the possible grant funding could help in that aspect by expanding playgrounds or renovating unused space.

“I hink everyone here is aware that child care is very very rare,” Anderson said. “We hardly ever have a slot open. We need child care so we can do it in an environmentally rich program. We can just do so much more when we have the space and availability.”

Clay County Mayor Dale Reagan said he has already signed a letter of intent to apply for the grant funding. Jackson County’s Over the Rainbow child care also sees a need. Owner Theresa Fox called the extra money a, “desperate need.”