McPherson County Expands Early Childhood Care Through State Grant

McPHERSON — The McPherson County Community Foundation has successfully completed a state grant initiative that added 35 new childcare slots for infants and toddlers across McPherson and Marion counties.

Between June and September, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and All in for Kansas Kids Child Care Zones grant funded the addition of 17 infant slots and 18 toddler slots. The largest increases came from two McPherson County facilities: the Marquette Learning Center and Christ's Kids in Galva.

The initiative partnered with 34 childcare providers across both counties—21 in McPherson County and 13 in Marion County. More than $70,000 in funding was distributed directly to McPherson County providers for technology upgrades, infant and toddler stipends, and Child Development Associate certification bonuses.

"The Child Care Zones initiative is designed to strengthen the community's early childhood care and education system," said Betsy Davis, MCCF Director of Community Services. The program, funded through the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund, brings together local partners to expand access for families and create sustainable solutions for providers.

Since its launch, the project has provided technology grants, enrollment stability support, and professional development opportunities to providers. Collaboration with local businesses, the county health department, and nonprofit partners has led to new approaches in workforce development, subsidy use, and family outreach.

The Child Care Zones initiative will continue into its second year of funding through October 2026, with a focus on creating lasting partnerships and expanding childcare opportunities that meet the unique needs of McPherson County.

For more information, contact Betsy Davis at Betsy@McPhersonFoundation.org.

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