An Ainsworth-based daycare center that opened last fall has received one of Governor Kim Reynolds’ recently announced  grants to create about 5,200 child care slots in Iowa. 

Little Ducklings Daycare is receiving $24,180 as part of the Child Care Challenge Fund. Owner Trisha Morrison is licensed to have 49 children of which she currently has 25 enrolled with five staff members. Morrison plans to spend the grant on an outdoor toddler playground. She shares her thoughts on receiving the grant and the current need for childcare, “It means the world to me that other people outside of just childcare workers are seeing the greater need for this, for daycare. And are willing to help us get daycare going in this area. We are in dire need of daycare centers. It takes a special type of person to be willing and able to do this kind of job. But I also think as a parent myself of four children, the need for daycare is huge. Not only for daycare but affordable daycare.”

Nearly $37 million was awarded from the Child Care Challenge Program, $26.9 million from Iowa Workforce Development and the Iowa Department of Human Services, $3 million from the state legislature, and $6.7 million from American Rescue Plan Act funds. Those looking for a child care slot or employment at Little Ducklings Daycare in Ainsworth can contact Morrison.