ASSUMPTION, Ill. (WCIA) — Christian County families now have increased support for their young ones, and the community is enthusiastic about this latest development.

For two years, Kemmerer Village, a nonprofit based in Assumption, has been developing a project aimed at addressing a gap within the community.

“It’s truly exciting to introduce a much-needed program to this wonderful community,” said Schales Nagle, the executive director of Kemmerer Village.

Monday morning, they celebrated their ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Assumption community childcare center.

“And it’s been really exciting because it’s been such a buildup and our communities, both communities, and all the surrounding ones really have really needed this,” said Aimee Younker, childcare teacher. “And so, it’s been such an excitement to watch it grow.”

Fundraising efforts include more than $300,000 raised to open their doors. Younker has four children of her own and she said she remembers when it was hard to find childcare herself.

“I stayed home with my younger two boys because it was hard to find childcare,” she said.

Younker said being able to help the next family who may be struggling with the same scenario means a lot to her. Nagle said they’ll be working with infants to age five.

“For us to have that here in the community and to take a little bit of that stress off of them and not have to drive up to Decatur or drive to Pana or Taylorville or wherever it may be,” Younker said. “It’s very fulfilling to know that we can provide that service.”

Twelve children are currently enrolled at the center. For more information click here.