Child Care Connections, Inc.

Child Care Connections, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves six counties in Montana: Gallatin, Park, Meagher, Jefferson, Broadwater, and Lewis and Clark. The organization focuses on promoting quality child care and supporting early childhood development by advocating for the well-being of children through various programs that assist families and child care providers.

Mission and Operations

Child Care Connections supports families and the local economy by encouraging quality child care and ensuring safety. The organization provides essential resources and referrals for families seeking child care services. Their mission is centered around advocating for the well-being and quality care of children, supporting early childhood professionals, families, and the communities they serve.

Closing of Operations

As of 2024, Child Care Connections faced a significant transition due to changes in state contracting for childcare resource centers. The organization did not receive a provider services contract from the state for the upcoming fiscal year and declined a family services contract due to insufficient budget allocations for necessary services. These contracts were crucial to the majority of their funding. Consequently, Child Care Connections announced its closure at the end of 2024, marking the end of a 45-year tenure serving the community.

Legacy and Transition

The Greater Gallatin United Way has absorbed some of the early childhood and advocacy programs previously offered by Child Care Connections. This move aims to build on the legacy of Child Care Connections and continue their work in supporting families and child care providers. The transition underscores the challenges faced by nonprofits in maintaining their services amidst shifting funding landscapes and the importance of collaboration to preserve community resources.