Brookings finding a way to potentially bring childcare to 360 more kids [Video]

BROOKINGS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) — Like many South Dakota cities, Brookings is facing a childcare crisis.

Families are struggling to afford care for their kids, while providers struggle to stay open. That means some employers lose employees. It doesn’t help that the city is low on options for infants and toddlers aged 0 to 3.

But, a collaboration of three major forces — one in the nonprofit sector and two powerhouses in the educational field — are on the precipice of finding what they call quality, affordable daycare for 360 kids aged birth to five.

“The Brookings community really cares about the families,” said Caitlyn Christy, the Boys & Girls Club of Brookings director of development and communications.

“Everyone wants to do their part in solving the childcare crisis. It’s been very easy to find common-minded people in trying to figure out a realistic and sustainable option for families …