New Childcare Facility Coming to Minneota to Address Growing Demand

Issue #184

24 Jan

In this Marshall Area Insider issue…

🌨️ Marshall, MN Weather - Snow showers with a high of 31

🗞️ New Childcare Facility Coming to Minneota to Address Growing Demand

🗞️ Deer-Vehicle Crash on Highway 19 Sends Woman to Hospital

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📌 Know of other local events not listed? Send us the details!

New Childcare Facility Coming to Minneota to Address Growing Demand

The childcare shortage in southwest Minnesota remains a significant challenge, but efforts to expand access are underway.

Little Explorers, a daycare center in Ghent, has announced plans to open a second location in Minneota, with construction anticipated to begin this spring. The project is moving forward, with land already purchased and paperwork nearing completion.

Since its launch in January 2022, Little Explorers has operated at full capacity, serving 62 children ranging from six weeks to 12 years old.

Despite this, the center currently has a waitlist of over 90 children, highlighting the urgent demand for additional childcare services.

The upcoming Minneota facility will expand its capacity to 100 children, with added features such as two infant rooms and two preschool rooms to accommodate the needs of various age groups.

Plans also include a dedicated nursing room and a staff lounge, making it a well-rounded space for both children and caregivers.

The shortage of childcare options is particularly concerning in Minneota, where many existing providers are approaching retirement.

Murray County commissioners, aware of the regional demand, recently toured the Little Explorers center in Ghent to gain insights into its design and operations. This visit also comes as Wonder World, a daycare center in Murray County, faces the possibility of closing when its lease expires in 2026.

The new Minneota facility will incorporate thoughtful design features to create a child-friendly environment.

Oversized, low-set windows will allow children to see outside and enjoy natural light, while a fully licensed commercial kitchen will ensure that meals are prepared to the highest safety and sanitation standards.

To reduce costs, Little Explorers will continue sourcing furniture and equipment from Jonti-Craft, a local supplier offering discounted, high-quality products.

Operating a childcare center also involves adhering to strict state regulations, including specific staff-to-child ratios and room size requirements.

Little Explorers will maintain these standards while introducing unique touches that have made the Ghent location a favorite among families.

Recognizing the importance of childcare access, Murray County’s Economic Development Authority (EDA) offers financial assistance to those looking to start or expand daycare facilities.

Childcare centers can apply for forgivable loans of up to $10,000, while home-based providers may qualify for up to $5,000. These funds can be used for licensing, renovations, or expansions, with applications reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

As Little Explorers prepares to break ground on its Minneota location, the expansion underscores the critical need for innovative solutions to address the childcare shortage in southwest Minnesota.

With growing community support and local resources available, steps are being taken to ensure more families have access to quality childcare services.

Deer-Vehicle Crash on Highway 19 Sends Woman to Hospital

A vehicle-deer collision on Highway 19 near Vesta resulted in injuries for a 61-year-old Ivanhoe woman on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The incident occurred around 4:06 p.m. as a westbound 2023 Ford F150 struck a deer.

The driver, identified as Sara Marczak of Ivanhoe, was injured in the crash and transported to a hospital in Marshall with non-life-threatening injuries.

Emergency response to the scene included the Redwood County Sheriff’s Office, the Vesta Fire Department, and North Ambulance, who provided assistance in managing the situation.

Upcoming Area Events

 🗓️ Have an event to add? Send us the details!

Saturday, January 25th

  • 4 Person Puzzle Challenge at the Cottonwood Community Center starting at 1:00 PM

    • Registration begins at 12:30

    • Deadline to register is January 17th - Register here

  • Mid-Winter Community Celebration at The Rock: Dining and Events in Granite Falls from 5:30 - 9:00 PM

    • Social Hour with Appetizers, Silent Auction & Entertainment

    • Tickets are $39.19

  • Live music with Strictly Herbal at the Bluenose Gopher Public House in Granite Falls from 7:00 - 9:00 PM

    • No cover charge

Wednesday, February 5th (first Wednesday of every month)

  • Dementia Caregiver Support Group from 10:00 - 11:30 AM at Adult Community Center in Marshall

    • Open to everyone, come when you can, no cost or obligation to attend, refreshments available

    • For questions contact Jane Nelson Como (507) 829-1143

Friday, February 7th

  • Valentine’s Day Artistry Spa Event at the Iverson Tree Farm in Belview from 4:00 - 7:00 PM

    • Enjoy a night of pampering at this open house style spa event

    • Skincare assessment with suggested regiment, facial, massage, make up tutorial and snacks/refreshments!

    • Only $10 at the door

    • First 25 guests receive a free gift!

Saturday, February 8th
Friday, February 14th
Saturday, February 15th
Sunday, February 16th

  • Bingo at Echo, MN Community Center starting at 11:30 AM

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