Building Blocks Learning Center receives $100,000 grant to expand classroom capacity

Childcaring Inc. awarded Building Blocks Learning Center a $100,000 capacity-building grant to expand classrooms, add child care slots, improve facilities and strengthen staffing supports; the funds were provided through Wood County’s allocation of American Rescue Plan Act relief funds.

Building Blocks Learning Center Inc., a licensed group child care center in Wisconsin Rapids, will receive a $100,000 capacity-building grant from Childcaring Inc. The award is intended to expand classroom space, add child care slots, improve facilities and enhance staffing supports. Administrator Jennifer Hanzlik said the grant will allow the center to expand three classroom environments and support current teaching staff. Childcaring Inc. presented the grant as part of a broader effort to strengthen the child care system across central Wisconsin. Key details: - The grant amount is $100,000 and is designated as a capacity-building award. - Recipient: Building Blocks Learning Center Inc., located in Wisconsin Rapids. - Purpose: expand classroom environments, add child care slots, improve facilities and enhance staffing supports; the center plans expansion of three classroom environments, according to the release. - Funder and source: Childcaring Inc. awarded the grant using local government relief funds made available by the American Rescue Plan Act and designated by the Wood County Board; Childcaring received $402,000 of the county’s $14,179,200 in relief funds. - Childcaring’s executive director, Kelly Borchardt, said the organization is investing in programs that meet community needs and support sustainable growth, as reported in the release. Summary: The grant is intended to expand Building Blocks’ capacity and supports, with the center planning expanded classroom environments and staff support for spring 2026 and beyond. Childcaring framed the award as part of a regional strategy to invest in child care capacity, quality and long-term sustainability; additional funding opportunities for providers were reported as possible but broader details are undetermined at this time.