The Salvation Army Mount Vernon Corps is set to open a new childcare center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for January 18, 2026. The facility spans 13,270 square feet and includes nine classrooms that can accommodate up to 76 children in childcare placement. Overall, the center will serve 112 children aged six weeks and older. It features a Sensory Aware area, kitchen, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor play areas.
Captain Christine Moretz, Corps Commanding Officer, emphasized the impact of the new center: "This expanded center will allow us to transform more lives and provide greater hope to those in need by offering affordable opportunities for educational, social, and year-round recreational programming."
The event will take place at The Salvation Army Mount Vernon Corps Community Center located at 206 E. Ohio Ave., Mount Vernon, OH. The ceremony begins at 2:00 pm with media interviews available an hour later. John Booth, Advisory Board Chairman, will lead the dedication prayer. Lt. Colonel David Davis will offer greetings and words of celebration as the Territorial Commander. Mayor Matt Starr of Mount Vernon will present a proclamation from the city.
The Salvation Army has been providing assistance since 1865 through various social services including food provision, disaster relief, aid for the disabled, outreach programs for the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter for the homeless, and opportunities for underprivileged children. More information can be found on their website.
