Gibbon takes steps to address child care needs through state initiative

GIBBON, Neb. — City leaders in Gibbon are taking the next steps to address child care challenges after being selected for the Communities for Kids initiative.

The program is designed to help communities facing shortages in child care and early education, an issue local officials say has been a priority for years.

Gibbon City Administrator Matt Smallcomb said community surveys conducted in 2022 and 2023 made that need clear.

“One of main priorities was child care and early education in general,” said Smallcomb. “We thought it’d be a good fit for Gibbon.”

A core group made up of business owners, educators, city leaders and families is now working with the program over the next several years.

The group is currently gathering input from the community to determine how best to use funding and resources.

“We want this to be a community-driven impact,” said Smallcomb. “We want input from the community, and then we’ll decide what direction we take it.”

Like many smaller communities, Gibbon faces challenges with both access and affordability when it comes to child care.

“If families can’t afford to send kids to daycare, and they can’t afford to work, where does that leave us? We need to support them in many ways,” Smallcomb said.

City leaders say the goal is to take a long-term approach, developing a plan that not only addresses current needs but also supports future growth.

“At the end of the day, projects like this are about supporting families and making communities like Gibbon a place people can work, live, and raise kids.”

Communities like Elm Creek and Ravenna have also recently participated in the program.

Those interested in learning more or getting involved can contact organizers by emailing [email protected] .