ESSEX, Iowa [KETV] — An Iowa group looks to raise millions of dollars to help meet the needs of the families it serves. Essex Childcare Center is currently licensed for 59 kids for a population of 700 people. Its board is now looking to construct a new building after years of band-aid repairs to its space. The building is over 100 years old. In one of the basements, you can still see some of the old coal shafts from businesses that used to stand there. Despite thousands of dollars of repairs, water and moisture continuously seep into the basements.

The old brick walls have also deteriorated over the years. A wall that collapsed in the basement recently, caused the center to shut down for two weeks. A building that used to be next door burned down years ago, leaving behind smoke damage. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, Page County only had seven child care centers to serve the population of over 15,000 residents in 2022. Essex Childcare Center has served generations of children in this building.

The space limits capacity. The goal is to leave the building as soon as possible. Official said they need an estimated $2 million for a new building. They hope to fund-raise the money and apply for grants to fund the cost over the next few years. They plan to kick off their fundraising on April 6 with autograph signings by Rebekah Allick at the Essex Community School. There will also be pancakes and a silent auction. The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon. Admission for adults is $10 and for kids $5.

You can also find details for other upcoming fundraisers on the Essex Childcare Center’s Facebook page.