Child care initiative spots finish line

After years of planning and fundraising, the Holyoke Community Childcare Initiative is getting closer to reaching its goal of building a much-needed child care center in Holyoke.

HCCI is inviting the community and stakeholders to an informational kickoff celebration to announce the location and funding status of the proposed facility. The event is set for Monday, July 25, at 6:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 1000 E. Johnson St., Holyoke. A light dinner will be provided.

The goal is to complete funding and break ground by 2023 on an 11,500-square-foot building that can serve over 100 kids from birth to school age. HCCI has successfully completed a feasibility study, secured a contractor and designed the building.

The project costs $3.35 million, and HCCI has already raised $1.6 million. There are plans to reapply for the Department of Local Affairs Energy Impact grant for $750,000 in September.

Any taxpayer who makes a monetary contribution may claim an income tax credit of 50%.

To donate, visit https://bit.ly/HCCIDonate. For more information, contact Trisha Herman at 970-218-4037.