"There are so many communities that don't understand the economic benefit of having quality, affordable childcare in their community. What that means to the growth of the community. So being able to partner with local childcare centers such as Melissa Patterson and the Greater Topeka Partnership just has really been a big win for Shawnee County."
Sarah Elsen
Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas

building momentum through collaboration

Childcare efforts in Topeka and Shawnee County continue to advance under Momentum 2027, with providers like Patterson Family Childcare Center expanding to meet demand. Patterson has opened two new centers in the past year, growing from 28 slots at the original location to 150 slots across three sites. The expansion has created new opportunities for families to find reliable, quality care close to home.

Meanwhile, Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas is working with child care partners and GO Topeka to reshape the local landscape, recognizing that child care availability greatly impacts the workforce. More than 480 child care slots have been created countywide through collaborative efforts, and the Family Forward initiative—which is managed by the Topeka Community Foundation and actively seeking support from local companies—will soon offer scholarships to help parents bridge coverage gaps. With these partnerships, and more, in motion, Momentum 2027 is proving how essential child care is to both economic growth and the community’s vision for success.

news of the progress

Learn more about some of the major points of progress for the Child Care Task Force.