OneWest Initiates Transformation for 24-Hour Child Care Facility in Louisville
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — With more than 45,000 residents in Kentucky currently unable to participate in the workforce due to insufficient childcare options, a nonprofit organization is taking significant steps to address this pressing issue in Louisville. OneWest, an established nonprofit, is in the process of converting its headquarters into a comprehensive 24-hour child care facility, aiming to alleviate the substantial barriers many families face.
OneWest’s Chief Executive Officer, Evon Smith, announced that the renovation of the facility is underway, with plans to select a childcare provider after the work is completed. Smith emphasized the complexity associated with retrofitting older buildings for modern safety and operational standards. “It takes a lot to retrofit old buildings. We are in a position to manage the capital stack and pull together the resources needed to facilitate this project,” she explained. “Our primary objective is to create an environment that allows a provider to move in and start operations seamlessly.”
Previously, the site housed the Center for Women and Families, equipped with essential amenities such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and a commercial kitchen, making it an ideal candidate for the new childcare initiative. Jerad Davidson, the construction manager overseeing the project, asserted that updates are necessary to meet current codes and regulations. “We are diligently collaborating with federal, state, and local authorities to ensure that every detail is accounted for and that the center meets all safety requirements for childcare,” Davidson remarked.
The initiative arose from discussions at an economic development seminar held by OneWest at Central High School, where many students voiced challenges they encounter balancing schoolwork and responsibilities, particularly the burden of caring for younger siblings during nighttime hours. “This project not only has the potential to empower working adults but also relieve older siblings from caretaking, enabling them to focus more on their education and extracurricular activities,” Smith noted. She highlighted the broader community benefits, indicating the project could catalyze positive changes for families throughout the region.
The anticipated completion date for the renovation is set for 2026, after which OneWest will actively seek a suitable childcare provider to take over operations. This new facility is expected to provide much-needed support for working families, helping to bridge the significant gap in childcare access and boosting overall community welfare. As local demands for flexible childcare solutions grow, initiatives like these represent a promising step toward fostering a more inclusive and productive workforce in Kentucky.
