| Successful economic development activities during the past 8 years have created 100 new jobs and a critical need for additional child care capacity in Sierra County, New Mexico. To meet this need, Western New Mexico State University is using HSIAC funds to build and equip a 4,000-square-foot childcare center in Truth or Consequences, the county's largest population center. The center, a partnership between the university, the city of Truth or Consequences, and two experienced childcare organizations, will provide childcare services and train childcare providers through the university's nationally accredited Early Care, Education, and Family Support programs. More than $420,000 in cash and in-kind resources have been leveraged for the project.
Located in the Sonoran desert in south central New Mexico, Truth or Consequences has little industry, no local public transportation, and limited commercial interstate transportation. The median family income in Sierra County is approximately 70 percent of state median, making it one of the poorest counties in one of the poorest states in the country. The childcare center, located within 10 miles of 85 percent of the county's population, is an essential part of the overall economic development plan being carried out by the Sierra County Economic Development Organization.
Sierra County has only three childcare facilities: one licensed daycare/afterschool program, one licensed morning preschool, and one licensed home daycare provider. All are utilized to capacity and all have waiting lists. By providing quality certified care for the entire community as well as programs in early childhood education, this project is providing parents with safe, quality childcare that will enable them to go to work or enter job-training programs.
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