Hi everyone, my name is Ashley - and I am in the process of renovating and opening a child care center in Thompsonville, MI. As someone who grew up in the Benzie County area, and now as someone who lives, works and is raising a family in the area, I know firsthand the needs in this community. About a year ago, when I became a parent, I was shocked at the lack of child care options in the greater Benzie/Manistee County area. My husband and I set out to find a solution to the problem, and the answer came in the form of the perfect building with a great location in Thompsonville. Unfortunately, the State of Michigan does not offer grants or aid (unless in the form of loans) to child care center startups, which is why I am reaching out to you - the community - for help. We must have funds to purchase equipment and materials to get the inside stocked and ready for kids. Items such as tables, chairs, toys, storage shelves, cribs and cots aren't cheap to buy, which is where I am hoping to get financial help from you!

The hope is to have this building renovated and running by Fall/Winter 2022. This building will include 50-60 total openings, including infant and toddler openings, preschool openings, before/after school care and summer care for school-aged students. The age-old quote "it takes a village" couldn't be any more appropriate as it will truly take a village to get this child care center up and running, but it will be such a benefit to the community. I am happy to answer any questions or concerns about the process or the center itself.