Wagner Early Childhood in south-central South Dakota has been caring for children for more than 30 years and Rural Development Community Facilities loans and grants have helped in many ways, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When schools and businesses closed because of the pandemic, many teachers took their kids out of daycare. Our enrollment dropped significantly,” said Pam Beeson, Wagner Early Childhood Director. “But because we’ve been able to qualify for loans and grants as a non-profit business, we were able to keep our doors open and keep the facility up-to-date.”

What happens to a vacant big-box retail space in a rural community with leaders who have a vision and passion for service? In the case of Shelby, Montana, rural residents here and beyond will benefit with increased access to quality, affordable health care at a new, state-of-the-art clinic.

With residents, staff members and community leaders gathered, the Marias Health Care Clinic opened its doors after a year-long renovation project, creating a larger space to accommodate patient care and administrative and support services for this rural Montana community.