U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined representatives from Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County, Early Childhood Council of Larimer County, Teaching Tree Early Childhood Learning Center, Respite Care, and United Way of Larimer County for a tour of a potential comprehensive child and family campus in Loveland. Senator Bennet’s office has awarded a $1.5 grant to pursue this concept through the U.S. Senate Appropriation Funds.
The goal of this project is to provide services for multiple youth and family-serving agencies in one location. This campus will be a place in which youth between the ages of 0 and 18 can receive childcare and youth development services. This includes mental health services and other basic needs that can help families thrive.
Childcare is a challenge that impacts all families and employers in our community. According to the Colorado Office of Early Childhood, Colorado has the 8th highest childcare cost in the nation, and the price of childcare has risen by 41% during the pandemic. In addition, women and community members of color have lost their jobs in greater numbers and had to leave the workforce entirely to care for their children. This collaboration will help address the affordable childcare crisis in our community.
“We are excited about the opportunity to continue our work for this community by bringing forth an innovative solution that will help to serve hundreds of families,” said Kaycee Headrick, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County.
“Not only will this project expand access to childcare and other family services in Larimer County – something that the community desperately needs – it will also create 15-20 jobs,” said Senator Bennet.