Child playing with colorful toys at the learning center or in kindergarten.

HOUGHTON — Childcare momentum is growing in the Copper Country as partners and community members work together to expand access for local families. A challenge that intensified during COVID has prompted educators, nonprofits, and economic partners to collaborate – resulting in the creation of more than 60 new licensed childcare slots.

According to a press release from the Keweenaw Community Foundatoin, this progress is the product of coordinated efforts between the TreeHouse Family Resource Center, Keweenaw Community Foundation, Great Start to Quality and the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance, working together to create Start Small, a 1:1 childcare business support program.

Working together, this program, and a network of early childhood professionals and residents, have stepped forward to be part of the solution, establishing new in-home providers, helping expand existing programs, and strengthening the childcare workforce–all while maintaining a shared vision: ensuring that families can live, work, and thrive in the Copper Country.

Although this progress is significant, the work continues. The region still faces a shortage of hundreds of childcare slots, making it one of the community’s most critical infrastructure needs. The success achieved so far demonstrates that long-standing challenges can be addressed when partners and residents move together with intention and optimism.

“This progress is proof that when communities unite around a shared challenge, meaningful change is possible,” said Keweenaw Community Foundation Executive Director Robin Meneguzzo. “The work ahead is substantial, but so is the momentum already built–and local partners are committed to ensuring that every family has access to the childcare they need to succeed.”

Save the Date: Shine Bright Childcare Celebration

The public is invited to the free Shine Bright Childcare Celebration at 5:30 p.m. Jan. at the Hancock Community Hub. This family-friendly event will feature food, children’s activities and dancing as the community comes together to celebrate local childcare successes. Community members, educators, and families are welcome, and those interested in starting a childcare program are encouraged to attend to learn about available supports and incentives for launching a childcare business.