Rep. Scholten Celebrates $1M Investment in United Methodist Community House to Expand Access to Childcare

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, Rep. Hillary Scholten (MI-03) toured the United Methodist Community House to learn about how the $1 million investmentthat she secured through the Community Project Funding process for the organization’s 904 Renovation will expand access to childcare for West Michigan families.

“As a working mom, I know firsthand how essential childcare is for families, and the childcare shortage in Kent County is devastating parents and families in every corner of our community,” said Rep. Scholten. “This investment will help us as we work to close the gap and connect more families in the county with the high-quality childcare they need and deserve. It was an honor to partner with United Methodist Community House in this effort and I will continue working tirelessly to make sure every family can access this essential resource.”

“Childcare is desperately lacking throughout Kent County and especially in the 49507-zip code, a Promise Neighborhood, where UMCH is located,” said chief executive officer Carla Moore. “Children with access to high-quality early childhood education are healthier, perform better in school, and have higher income potential throughout their lives. Yet still too many are missing their chance. Congresswoman Scholten’s support of this community project funding will help UMCH nearly double the size of our child development center, expanding access to these essential programs for the children who need it most.”

This project represents one of the 15 Community Project Funding allocations that Rep. Scholten secured for Michigan’s Third District totaling more than $11.5 million. These projects will work to address pressing issues in West Michigan – from access to high-quality childcare to affordable housing, tackling the youth mental health crisis, and more.