Finding adequate child care is one of the many struggles facing college students, forcing some to even give up their education.
Now, thanks to a grant from Alabama Power Foundation, Stillman College will be able to help resolve that struggle.
Through the Stillman-Brown Memorial Child Care Program, childcare services will be provided to more than 100 students who are parents on campus.
The childcare program is a partnership between Stillman College and Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church, which was established by Stillman’s Founder, Reverend Dr. Charles Stillman, in 1880. The church’s assembly and Sunday school area will be renovated as a state-certified childcare facility.
“Access to childcare for our students has been a major challenge for the campus,” said Stillman President Dr. Cynthia Warrick. “This important gift from the Alabama Power Foundation expresses their timely support and will make a major impact on our student parents’ ability to complete their degree.”
Stillman recently received a grant from the Aspen Institute to develop a plan to support the needs of student parents. This plan laid the groundwork for the development of the Stillman-Brown Memorial Child Care Program.
The college plans for the childcare center to become licensed by the Child Care Services Division of the Alabama Department of Human Resources, which requires renovations and
upgrades to the current space to meet requirements for childcare. Additionally, a licensed childcare management company will oversee the day-to-day operations, record-keeping, and financial management of the center.
Stillman said it plans to seek supplemental grants to subsidize the costs of childcare for students who are also eligible for the state childcare subsidy. The center will also facilitate opportunities for education and child development majors to volunteer and gain experiential learning.
“As a member of the business community, Alabama Power recognizes that childcare continues to be a barrier for many families, which affects the development of our overall workforce,” said Alabama Power Western Division Vice President Jill Stork. “I am grateful for the support of the Alabama Power Foundation to Stillman College, and so appreciative to Dr. Warrick for having the vision of this center.
“I know this childcare program will greatly impact the students on campus by ensuring they are better positioned for success in their educational journey.”
The childcare center will begin phase one of its renovations beginning this Fall. It is estimated that the project will take approximately six months to complete, so students will have use of the facility, given the required certifications by fall 2024.
“We can’t thank Alabama Power Foundation enough for this support that will positively impact our campus and community,” Warrick said.
