Connecting parents and caregivers to an affordable, high-quality early learning center for children 18 months to five years old.
UNITED LEARNING CENTER | NEW PROJECT - OPENING FALL 2022
In Lewis County, roughly only 25% of children under five years of age have the opportunity to participate in a quality child care program; lack of child care centers playing a large part in this. Center numbers are on the decline, leaving families and children unable to access programs that promote child success.
Parents of infants and young children all across Washington struggle to find and afford high-quality, licensed child care, often paying more for child care than the cost of college tuition.
Through extensive research and community conversations, United Way of Lewis County, in partnership with the City of Centralia and other local organizations focused on our youth, have come together to create the United Learning Center.
Project Goals
- To provide a quality early learning program for up to 150 children between the ages of 18 months and five years old
- Target population - ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed)
- Through scholarships, children will be able to attend at little to no cost to the family. This increases the available workforce, provides an affordable child care option for the family and a safe and educational environment for the kids.
The United Learning Center will focus on a high-quality curriculum that aligns with local school districts, also with an emphasis on Language and Arts. Studies have shown that focus in these areas leads to better overall outcomes. There is a wealth of research and data that connect high-quality early childhood experiences to children’s school readiness and later life success.
Project Status
Over the past year, a variety of sites have been assessed to utilize as an early learning center for Lewis County. The current focus for the location of the United Learning Center is downtown Centralia, in partnership with the City of Centralia. We have been working closely with other local organizations to maximize the impact of this location.
September 2020 Project Update
- The City of Centralia recently approved $1.9 million in REET funds to help construct the United Learning Center; location will be corner of Maple and Pearl St.
- With partners Boys & Girls Club of Lewis County, Discover! Children's Museum, and United Way of Lewis County, the United Learning Center will facilitate the comprehensive education of our community's youth and their families.
- Currently working with KMB Architects and the City of Centralia on site plans and design options.
- The United Learning Center will serve ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed)
- Construction is set to begin Spring 2021, goal of opening Fall 2022.
