Mandy
Parents and caregivers in McPherson and Marion counties now have a simpler way to find reliable childcare options, thanks to the launch of a new online directory designed specifically for their communities.
A Central Hub for Local Childcare Providers
The new website, McPhersonMarionChildcare.com, offers a comprehensive list of childcare providers operating in the two counties.
All listed providers are licensed through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, ensuring families can access verified and regulated childcare services in one place.
This centralized platform aims to make the childcare search process more transparent and less time-consuming for local families.
Supporting Transparency and Community Connections
Betsy Davis, an organizer involved in the initiative, explained that the website was created to strengthen transparency across the local childcare system.
Beyond listing providers, the platform helps highlight available amenities, encourages community and family connections, and fosters peer-to-peer networking among childcare providers themselves.
According to Davis, the goal is not just visibility, but also collaboration—helping families and providers connect more effectively within the community.
Giving Visibility to In-Home and Small Daycares
One of the biggest challenges the site addresses is the lack of online visibility for in-home and small childcare providers. Many of these providers rely heavily on word-of-mouth referrals, which can leave them overlooked when families search online.
Davis noted that providers frequently share the same concern: families simply do not know they exist. By bringing these smaller operations onto a shared platform, the website helps ensure they are no longer hidden from families actively seeking childcare.
Funding and Oversight Behind the Initiative
The project is funded through the Childcare Zone Grant serving McPherson and Marion counties. Oversight and administration are provided by the McPherson County Community Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at strengthening local services and resources.
The launch of McPhersonMarionChildcare.com marks an important step forward for families and childcare providers in McPherson and Marion counties.
By creating a transparent, centralized, and easy-to-use directory of licensed childcare providers, the initiative improves access, boosts visibility for small and in-home daycares, and strengthens community connections.
With grant funding and local oversight, the platform is positioned to become a long-term resource that supports both parents and providers across the region.