[Photos and full audio from today’s event can be found below]
(Atlantic) Representative Zach Nunn, of Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District, announced a $2.5 million federal investment to support construction of a new child development center in Atlantic—expanding access to high-quality critical child care, creating jobs, and strengthening long-term economic growth across Cass County and Southwest Iowa.
Rep. Nunn announced the funding this morning at the Heritage House in Atlantic alongside local leaders, families, and Vision Atlantic—the nonprofit organization receiving the federal funding.
The award, administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Community Facilities Grant program, will support construction of a new, large-scale child development center in Atlantic.
“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Zach Nunn for securing $2.5 million in Community Project Funding for the Lakin Foundation Child Development Center of Atlantic,” said Christina Bateman, Vision Atlantic Board President. “This community-changing investment will open doors for nearly 300 children and give working parents the peace of mind that comes from knowing their children are safe, loved, and learning every day. Congressman Nunn’s commitment makes this new childcare center possible, strengthening families, the workforce, and the future of Atlantic and the greater Southwest Iowa region.”
State and local leaders emphasized the broader economic impact the project will have on rural communities.
“In my eight-year capacity as a President Trump nominee, Senate confirmed Director of the Farm Credit Administration, I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout this country in rural America, visiting hundreds of rural communities like Atlantic,” said Glen Smith, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development Nominee . “Almost all have similar challenges of affordable housing and offering quality of life amenities that attract economic development. But this community is doing something about it with Vision Atlantic, and with the help of Congressman Zach Nunn and his staff, is developing a model that could be replicated throughout the country.”
“To say that this is a huge announcement is an understatement,” said State Sen. Tom Shipley (R-09). “The opportunities that this facility will provide for lots of kids and their families are tremendous. But it’s not just those people who benefit. It’s all the employers in the area who need resources for their employees to have a safe and nurturing environment for their kids. That leads to more productive employees who are looking for long-term work. Thank you, Rep. Nunn and USDA Rural Development, for making Southwest Iowa the best place to raise a family.”
“This $2.5 million investment is a game-changer for western Iowa families, showcasing exactly what can be achieved when federal and local partners work in tandem,” said State Rep. Tom Moore (R-Griswold). “I am grateful to Congressman Zach Nunn for his leadership in championing this funding through the federal appropriations process. By leveraging this public-private partnership, we are ensuring that these resources directly enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities for youth, families, and businesses in Southwest Iowa for years to come.”
“Folks, days like today don’t just happen. They take neighbors working with neighbors, local leaders, non-profits, businesses, and donors. Some giving a little, some giving a lot, all pulling in the same direction,” said Rob Clausen, Mayor of Atlantic, Iowa . “We also know how hard it is to get anything done in Washington these days, especially for rural Iowa, and that’s why we’re so thankful to have Congressman Zach Nunn in our corner. He knows communities like Atlantic, he understands our needs, and knows how to roll up his sleeves and get things done. Because of that hard work and this $2.5 million Community Project Funding Grant, the Lakin Foundation Child Development Center is going to make a real lasting difference for our kids, our families, and our future. This is what teamwork looks like, and we couldn’t be more grateful!”
The child development center is projected to increase the local tax base by more than $48 million, helping strengthen the region’s long-term economic outlook while expanding access to essential services for families. The project has received support from more than 100 local businesses, community leaders, state and local officials, regional partners, and residents, underscoring its broad impact and importance to Southwest Iowa.
You can hear full audio from Friday’s event here:
