Hancock — Community conversations in 2022 revealed a critical childcare shortage in the area, prompting local leaders to take action. In 2023, the Copper County Great Start Collaborative, in partnership with the Keweenaw Community Foundation (KCF), the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance and Great Start to Quality, launched Start Small — a program designed to support new and existing childcare providers with mentorship, licensing guidance, and business planning.

With additional support from Right Start UP, the Small Business Development Center, Copper Shores Community Health Foundation, and other partners, these efforts helped make it possible for Gabby’s Guppies Child Care to open a new childcare facility in the Hancock Community Hub. The center opened on August 25th, marking a significant step toward increasing access to childcare for local families and strengthening the region’s workforce.

“We have been working with local partners on how to increase childcare access since 2022 and are excited to see the progress that has been made” Robin Meneguzzo, KCF Executive Director said. The Start Small program has now supported Gabby’s Guppies Child Care in increasing its capacity from 12 to 48 children, and has also helped three in-home childcares open, serving an additional total of 18 children.” Meneguzzo added, “It has been amazing to see how many local organizations came together to support this project and help Gabby’s Guppies Child Care expand.”

“We have worked so hard to get our doors open, and are eagerly trying to fill our open slots! Many families are unaware of our separate age-based classrooms and the preschool curriculum we offer. We offer meals and full-day care for families! We also accept Subsidy and Tri-Care families,” stated Gabby Hodges, director and owner of, Gabby’s Guppies Child Care.

Abbey Carlson, Start Small Coach, Copper Country Great Start Collaborative said, “Having 18 childcare openings available in one location is rare, and it gives parents the unique opportunity to be part of Gabby’s Guppies from the very beginning. Families interested in exploring childcare options are encouraged to schedule a tour soon–these openings are not expected to last long.,”

Gabby’s Guppies Child Care has 18 available openings for children ages 30 months and older at its downtown Hancock center in the Hancock Community Hub. Families in the Copper Country now have an opportunity to enroll their children in a trusted, high-quality childcare program designed to support early learning and development.

Gabby’s Guppies offers full-time care Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., making it a convenient option for working families. In addition to providing a safe and nurturing environment, Gabby’s Guppies features a state-approved preschool curriculum (Experience Curriculum), ensuring that children receive a strong educational foundation.

State Financial Assistance Accepted

Gabby’s Guppies accepts state childcare subsidies through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for families who qualify under income guidelines — up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Family of 1: $31,300

Family of 2: $42,300

Family of 3: $53,300

Family of 4: $64,300

Family of 5: $75,300

Family of 6: $86,300

Family of 7: $97,300

Family of 8: $108,300

Families interested in securing one of the available spots can visit gabbysguppies.com, call (906) 481-1140 or email gabbys.guppies@gmail.com