Community leaders and project partners recently welcomed Patty Murray and Peter Abbarno to tour the newly completed first phase of the United Learning Center (ULC) in downtown Centralia on May 26, highlighting the transformative investment in early learning, youth development, and family support services in Lewis County.
“I’m so glad I was able to secure funding for ULC—United Way and their partners have created an important hub for the community to offer high-quality, affordable child care, early learning opportunities, and fun summer programs for kids. Having access to this center will be nothing short of lifechanging for so many families,” said Senator Murray. “I hear constantly from families across the state about how they can’t afford child care or they can’t get off the waiting list—that’s just wrong. Tackling the child care crisis is a top priority for me, so not only will I keep working to support local initiatives like this, I’ll keep pushing for a national investment to make high-quality, affordable child care a reality for every working family in America.”
The tour included representatives from United Way of Lewis County, Bezos Academy, Discover! Children's Museum, Centralia School District, Boys & Girls Club of Lewis County, and project manager Todd Chaput, who helped oversee the development and construction of the collaborative community facility.
Located in downtown Centralia, the United Learning Center was created through a partnership designed to provide comprehensive educational and enrichment opportunities for children and families. The facility brings together early learning, after-school programming, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on educational experiences under one roof.