OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Whether you’re at Solid Rock Community Church in Kissimmee or at 1 Clean Laundry in St. Cloud, kids are starting to notice these early learning hubs filled with dozens of books across Osceola County.
”I wish they were available when I was a young mom. I can imagine doing laundry and keeping my kiddo busy,” said Solid Rock Community Church Executive Pastor Tiffany Jeffers.
The Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County is using $650,000 from a federal grant and so far 10 hubs have been set up this year.
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Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County CEO Amanda Kelkenberg said the hubs are a way to boost child literacy, improve kindergarten readiness, and encourage families to play and learn together.
”When children see something child-size they immediately know it belongs to them,” said Kelkenberg. “There’s really some thinking that play is meant for everyday moments. If we can get play and books into everyday spaces families will be better off.”
Kelkenberg said $150,000 is being put towards Solid Rock Community Church to create the largest hub with multiple rooms, multilingual books, and activities.
”We have a lot of underrepresented families who are experiencing situations share they’re not able to provide these types of opportunities for the children. To be able to do this in our church, is a blessing,” said Kelkenberg.
Right now, families can stop by the church on the weekends. There are plans to open more hours during the week once the church gets more staff.
The coalition is planning to open five more over the next year.
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