USDA Rural Development awarded a Community Facilities Grant worth $133,200 to a childcare center in Rensselaer, Indiana. This grant will fund Appletree Rensselaer, a licensed childcare center providing services to 72 children between six weeks and five years old. The center will cater to a community that previously did not have access to licensed childcare services.

The Appleseed Childhood Education, Inc. has renovated a building belonging to Saint Franciscan Rensselaer Hospital to make it suitable for the childcare center. The funding from the USDA Rural Development will provide much-needed support to the community, allowing parents to work. At the same time, their children are cared for in a safe and nurturing environment.

Adam Alson, Appleseed Childhood Education President, stated that six classrooms are tailored to cater to different age groups. The play-based curriculum is designed to promote the children's development and growth. With this approach, the children are encouraged to learn through hands-on activities, interactive play, and exploration, all of which foster their creativity and curiosity.

The USDA Rural Development provides funding to support rural communities across the United States. The Community Facilities Grant program provides funding to support essential community facilities in rural areas, such as healthcare centers, public safety facilities, and childcare centers. The funding helps to improve the quality of life for residents in these communities and supports economic development.

Alson concluded with, "This has been a wonderful project, and USDA Rural Development has been a wonderful partner all throughout this."