Look How Far We've Come!
In 1983, the Children’s Center operated on a $120,000 budget, supporting 12 employees who served sixty-three children. In 2018, the Children’s Center maintains a $12 million budget, employing more than 230 professionals who serve over 1,200 children annually.
Born in 1983
Since its inception, the Children’s Center has touched the lives of thousands of children and their families in Western Tidewater.
Finding a Home
In October 1983, Barbara Mease met with members of the Congregational Christian Church in Franklin to inquire about using the church’s facilities.
Building a Second Center
In 1990, Paul D. Camp Community College approached the Children’s Center about donating property along Campbell Ave in Franklin for a new and much larger center.
Adding Early Head Start
With programs continuing in Franklin and at a newly renovated building at 300 Executive Court in Suffolk, the Children’s Center had an opportunity to expand when the federally funded Early Head Start program put out a call for proposals.
Growing Like Children
After receiving an expansion grant, the Center began work on multiple projects. The 507 Third Avenue building was renovated for a third time. The Suffolk Center was renovated and expanded to double its size.
New Head Start
In July 2012, the Children’s Center was notified that it had received the Head Start replacement grant for Western Tidewater. The Center was funded to serve 300 children in Franklin, Suffolk, Southampton County, and Isle of Wight County.
Made in the U.S.A.