The Salvation Army of Mount Vernon and Knox County has announced the opening of a new childcare center set for January 2026. This initiative is supported by $5 million in community contributions aimed at addressing local childcare shortages and expanding social services.
In 2017, the Salvation Army Advisory Board in Mount Vernon identified affordable childcare as a primary need through a commissioned program study. A subsequent feasibility study confirmed community support, while a separate survey by the Knox County Area Development Foundation revealed that over 90% of respondents faced difficulties finding childcare. More than half reported having a family member unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities, according to the Salvation Army of Mount Vernon and Knox County.
In response, the Board initiated a campaign and formed committees to guide the project. They partnered with architecture firm SoL, Harris, Day to design a 13,720-square-foot facility featuring seven classrooms for children aged six months to kindergarten and two rooms for an existing afterschool program. Construction commenced before reaching the $6.25 million goal, with over $5 million raised so far. Learning Zone director Zach Shoro will oversee operations of the new center after leading it through state licensing. The project is part of broader efforts to upgrade the Army’s main facility and enhance local social service programs.
"We have been blessed by how quickly the Light The Day campaign and the building have come to fruition," said Captain Christine Moretz. "This new building expansion will help meet the many needs of our neighbors and friends. We are so excited to better serve Knox County."
The Salvation Army was originally founded in 1865 as the East London Christian Mission by William Booth. It is a global Christian organization employing a military-style structure to guide its mission of meeting human needs and spreading Jesus Christ's message without discrimination. Motivated by faith, it operates in over 130 countries, assisting millions annually through services addressing both physical and spiritual needs. In Northeast Ohio, where it has served since 1872, the Salvation Army runs 124 active units focused on community support.
