Childcare Resources Receives $850,000 State Appropriation to Support New Downtown Campus

Childcare Resources’ new downtown Campus of Early Childhood Excellence will expand the organization’s innovative three-program model, bringing together early learning, wellness and early intervention services, and professional development opportunities for early educators to better support children, families, and the broader community.

An $850,000 appropriation in the 2026-2027 Florida state budget will support the development of Childcare Resources of Indian River’s new downtown campus, a transformative project designed to expand access to high-quality early childhood education, strengthen the local workforce, and contribute to the revitalization of downtown Vero Beach.

The future of early childhood education is taking shape. Construction is underway on Childcare Resources' new downtown campus, with the school set to welcome children in Fall 2026.

The appropriation was made possible through the support and advocacy of Representative Robert Brackett and Senator Debbie Mayfield, who championed this critical initiative and supported its inclusion in the state budget.

“Access to quality, affordable childcare is essential for working families and for a strong local economy,” Rep. Brackett shared. “This appropriation will help expand support for families, strengthen early learning opportunities, and ensure more parents can remain in the workforce with confidence. I’m proud to support an investment that delivers meaningful results for children, parents, and our entire community.”

The new campus will serve as a model for early childhood excellence through Childcare Resources’ innovative “three programs in one” approach, bringing together early learning, wellness and early intervention services, and professional development opportunities for early educators all in one place.

“I have seen the critical role Childcare Resources plays in providing high-quality early education services to families who need it most,” said Senator Mayfield. “I was proud to work alongside Rep. Brackett to secure funding, ensuring that the organization has the resources and space to help as many families as possible.”The new campus will also serve as a catalyst for continued downtown revitalization, increasing daily activity, and attracting additional foot traffic to surrounding businesses.

"We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood behind this project and shared their support with Governor DeSantis,” adds Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “Together, we are reshaping the future of early learning in Indian River County."