Children’s House of Montessori Selected for Capacity Building Grant

Monday, May 5th, 2025 -- 9:01 AM

(Wisconsin Rapids City Times) An area child care center will be able to expand after earning a grant through the American Rescue Plan Act.

According to the Wisconsin Rapids City Times, Childcaring Inc. awarded the $100,000 Capacity Building Grant to Children’s House of Montessori, a licensed group child care center in Marshfield.

The funding is aimed at addressing the ongoing need for increased child care access in Wood County and central Wisconsin. It will support Children’s House in expanding its capacity by creating new child care slots, enhancing facility infrastructure and supporting the needs of the community, Childcaring said in a release.

The funding is part of a broader initiative to invest in sustainable, long-term solutions to the region’s child care shortage. They also said it’s part of Childcaring’s ongoing commitment to strengthening early childhood systems and supporting working families across the region.

“This grant is a game-changer for our center and the families we serve,” said Megan DeLeske, director of Children’s House of Montessori. “We’ll be able to welcome more children into a safe, nurturing environment while also providing better support for our educators. This investment helps ensure that parents in our community can go to work knowing their children are receiving high-quality care.”

Kelly Borchardt, director of Childcaring, emphasized the importance of community collaboration and innovation in addressing the region’s child care challenges.

“This funding is not just about expanding a building, it’s about strengthening the foundation of our workforce and supporting the well-being of families,” Borchardt said. “We’re thrilled to see this grant going to a center that’s deeply rooted in its community and dedicated to growing access for those who need it most.”

The ARPA funding also offers a separate opportunity for Family Child Care Providers to receive up to a $10,000 grant. Another opportunity to apply for a $100,000 Group Center grant will be announced this fall.

Individuals interested in starting a regulated child care program in Wood County are encouraged to reach out to Childcaring. Childcaring offers child care resource and referral services, supports child care providers and helps families find care that meets their needs.

For more information about Childcaring’s grant programs and services, go to www.childcaring.org, email [email protected] or call (715) 841-9490.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.