Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Childcare Centre: Volunteers race to reopen childcare centre in Mount Isa

Church volunteers are racing against time to raise funds and reopen a childcare centre, which shut its doors last November, leaving hundreds of families in a lurch.

Volunteers have been working and helping to upgrade the St. Paul's Lutheran Church Childcare since the beginning of the year. Picture: Facebook

Church volunteers are racing against time to raise funds and reopen a Mount Isa childcare centre, which shut its doors last November, leaving hundreds of families in a lurch.

After months of work, the Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Childcare Centre is nearing the final stages of renovation and awaiting state government approval, with hopes to welcome back children by August.

A staff shortage forced the centre’s former provider to close down operations last November.

Determined to revive the centre, local church members took on the challenge, pouring in around $100,000 and countless weekends to refurbish the “run-down” facility.

Volunteer Corlia Pienaar said the anticipation for the reopening has been palpable, with a waiting list already swelling to 200 children.

“We’ve come so far, and I’m incredibly proud of our efforts,” she said.

“Unfortunately, we’ve hit a snag. Although about 90 per cent of the work is done, we need additional funds to complete the final touches and comply with service approval requirements.”

She said the church’s non-incorporated status has posed a significant hurdle, limiting their access to sponsorship opportunities.

Now, they aim to raise $20,000 to cover the remaining costs, which include crucial renovations and educational resources.

To bridge this gap, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched, and the community’s response has been heartening.

Ms Pienaar shared her amazement at the transformation achieved so far, reminiscing about the centre’s former state and the remarkable improvements made.

“This has never been just a business for us; it’s a labour of love,” she said.

“So many families depend on this centre. The waiting lists for childcare in this town are overwhelming. I know people who’ve waited two years for an opening.”

You can help here: https://bit.ly/3yXtTeG

Originally published as Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church Childcare Centre: Volunteers race to reopen childcare centre in Mount Isa