Childcare grants won in Klickitat County

The committee, formed in 2019, focused on creating more licensed childcare options. Since forming, it has conducted a feasibility study, supported individuals in becoming in-home licensed childcare providers, and secured $583,390 in federal funding for the renovation or construction of a new childcare center in Goldendale.

However, the committee must have a formal plan in place by August 31, 2025 to access the funding, said Leslie Naramore, executive director of Washington Gorge Action Programs. “If we can’t use it by this date, it will disappear.”

Lack of licensed childcare affects children, families, and employers. Businesses count-wide are struggling to recruit and retain employees. Parents often have to leave the workforce to care for children, reducing family income. Challenges for a new Goldendale childcare center include lack of potential sites and high renovation and operation costs. Under consideration is bringing in a modular building designed for a childcare setting.

Naramore said a small plot of land is needed to get this off the ground. “If we could have a suitable half acre or more donated to the cause, it would help us to plan for the construction of a childcare center and meet this August 2025 deadline.” If a plan is approved in time, the group would then have until 2030 to use the funds.

Meanwhile, the newest grants have allowed KCCC to contract with two new liaisons to help people through the childcare provider licensing process.

Jill McNealy will link applicants with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and Education Support District 112, and provide information on needed qualifications and training opportunities. She can be contacted by phone at 360-719-0314 or email klickitat4kids@gmail.com.

McNealy plans to meet monthly at the Goldendale Community Library with potential childcare providers. She will be in the Caplan Room on April 4 from 1:30-3 p.m. Claudia Guzman will also work with DCYF and other agencies to expand these opportunities within the Latino community. Her role is to support Spanish-speaking applicants as they go through the process. She can be reached by phone at 480-299-5185.

Other communities in Klickitat County are also addressing the need for more childcare options.

White Salmon Mayor Marla Keethler said, “We’re excited about the additional funding and expanded focus of the Klickitat Childcare Committee. Being able to build this partnership on the west side of the county will strengthen our city’s efforts to address the need for more local and affordable childcare, especially infant and toddler care, for our residents.”

To join KCCC or inquire about how to donate to the Goldendale facility effort, contact the group at kccc@wagap.org. Visit them online at www.gorgeearlylearning.com/kccc.html.