LAURIUM — For the second year in a row, the Keweenaw Health Foundation has stepped up to support local families by donating $25,000 to the Calumet, Laurium, Keweenaw Schools Childcare program. This continued investment underscores the Foundation’s commitment to helping address the region’s childcare shortage–a challenge that impacts families, employers and the broader community.

Last year’s initial donation from KHF allowed CLK Schools Childcare to expand services, extend operational hours, and strengthen staffing. This year’s renewed funding will help build on that progress by further enhancing staff recruitment and retention, improving access for more families, and maintaining the program’s high-quality care standards.

“Access to quality childcare continues to be one of the greatest needs for families in our community,” said Joel Asiala, superintendent of Calumet, Laurium, and Keweenaw Public Schools. “The Keweenaw Health Foundation’s continued support is making a real difference. Their partnership allows us to sustain growth, invest in our staff, and serve more children and families. We’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing commitment to our students and community.”

The childcare crisis has had far-reaching effects on local workforce participation and family stability. By focusing its philanthropic efforts on this issue, the Keweenaw Health Foundation aims to remove barriers for working parents and strengthen community well-being.

“Our mission is to invest in the health of our community in meaningful, lasting ways,” said Jenn Jenich-Laplander, executive director of the Keweenaw Health Foundation. “Supporting childcare directly impacts the health of families, businesses, and our region’s future. This second-year donation represents our belief that solving complex challenges like childcare access requires consistent, collaborative effort and we’re proud to be part of that solution alongside CLK Schools.”