News Summary
Tallahassee is evaluating a new 10,000 square foot childcare facility in Southwood to combat rising childcare costs and improve educational resources for children. An amendment related to this will be discussed by the City Commission on August 20. Given the increased childcare costs in Florida, community programs are available to assist families financially. The proposed facility aims to enhance competition and affordability in childcare, benefitting families and children in the area.
Tallahassee is considering a new childcare facility in the Southwood community, driven by rising costs and the need for more educational resources for children. An amendment to the Southwood Development Order will be reviewed by the Tallahassee City Commission on August 20. If approved, this facility will be situated at the intersection of Blair Stone Road and Esplanade Way and cover 10,000 square feet.
The Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend has reported that childcare costs in Florida have surged by 29% over the past four years, significantly impacting families’ budgets. Specifically, the average annual cost for infant care in the state has jumped from $9,200 last year to about $12,000 this year. A new daycare facility could foster competition in the area, likely leading to reduced costs for parents seeking affordable childcare options.
For families currently facing financial difficulties, various programs exist to assist with childcare costs. The South City Early Learning Center, recently opened, accommodates children aged six weeks to three years and offers scholarships to families. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of childcare while supporting parents looking to re-enter the workforce. The center emphasizes essential early education to avoid developmental delays through engaging activities.
In addition to early education, the Life Deliverance Ministry (LDM) Academy operates an after-school program designed for elementary school children. This program provides snacks, homework assistance, and recreational activities for just $50 to apply and $350 per month. Families may also qualify for financial support through the Early Learning Coalition, especially if their gross income is below 200% of the federal poverty level. With over 30 childcare options available through the Coalition in Leon County, parents have a range of choices to fit their needs.
The conversation surrounding childcare in Tallahassee is further enriched by the historical contributions of Black-owned businesses in the local economy. Examples of these businesses include the Miracle Hill Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, a significant employer in the healthcare sector for the Black community. Tallahassee’s oldest Black-owned business, Strong & Jones Funeral Home, has provided vital services for decades, while the Gilliam Brothers Barbershop, established in 1966, serves as a cultural hub and a place for grooming in the community.
The discussions at the upcoming City Commission meeting will focus not only on addressing the immediate needs for childcare but also on recognizing the importance of supporting local businesses and community initiatives that contribute to the area’s growth. As families continue to grapple with the high costs of childcare, the proposed facility at Southwood could serve as a crucial step toward providing additional resources and modern solutions to assist working families in Tallahassee.
Approval for the childcare facility hinges on the decisions made by both the Tallahassee and Leon County commissioners. As the community anticipates the upcoming meeting, the implications of this amendment could have lasting effects on the families and children of the Southwood area.
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Additional Resources
- WTXL: New Childcare Facility in Southwood Community
- Wikipedia: Child Care
- WTXL: New Early Learning Center for Southside Families
- Google Search: Affordable Childcare Florida
- Tallahassee Democrat: Guide to Black-Owned Businesses
- Google Scholar: Impact of Childcare Costs on Families
- WTXL: State of Emergency Declared in Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- WTXL: Affordable After School Programs
- Google News: Childcare in Tallahassee
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
