Manson launches community daycare initiative
Fundraising underway for Crater Kids
MANSON — When the city of Manson heard from residents that there just weren’t enough daycare providers locally, community leaders put their heads together and decided to create a daycare themselves.
The Manson community is now working together to fundraise and launch Crater Kids Community Daycare.
“Every town is looking at attracting and retaining residents,” said Board Member Stacy Kraft. “One of the essential services needed is to provide a safe and secure environment for our kids.”
Board members have secured the former United Church of Christ building for the new daycare facility. The church was recently decommissioned.
“We are currently working with Allers Architects to help us work through fire code requirements for a licensed daycare,” said Kraft. “Some of the renovations will include additional fire exits, restroom renovations and any other code requirements identified. Walls will need to be installed to create two additional classrooms. In addition, we would like to update floor and wall finishes. Outside the facility we will need to install fencing for a playground area.”
Fundraising is underway for the community daycare with United Church of Christ being the first to donate.
“They donated $10,000 to the fundraising campaign and spearheaded the maid rite meal fundraiser during Greater Crater Days,” said Kraft.
Fundraising for the community daycare is ongoing. The board recently released sponsorship levels for the program with donors receiving everything from a handwritten note from a Crater Kid to helping provide naming rights for different rooms throughout the building.
“This project cannot go on without the support of the community and businesses,” said Kraft. “Our goal is to raise $250,000 by Dec. 1.”
Anyone wanting to donate to the community daycare can do so at PO Box 26, Manson, IA 50563.
According to Kraft, the board is also actively recruiting a daycare director. Applications are available and being accepted on the group’s Facebook page.