COOK COUNTY NORTH STARSYellow Star  Early Care and Learning Initiative

You can make a difference for children in our community.

Reach for the Stars

Early care and learning are critical to helping kids master the skills they’ll need to grow into healthy, well-adjusted members of the Cook County and Grand Portage communities. Children rely on their families and trusted childcare providers to fulfill core needs such as social interactions, learning independence, building self-confidence and fostering community. Childcare is vital to the safety and stability of our community, and our kids deserve the absolute best.

Cook County North Stars is an initiative created by the Cook County Public Health and Human Services Department (PHHS), the Cook County and Grand Marais Economic Development Authority and the Childcare Solutions Subcommittee to elevate childcare options and opportunities in our region. This initiative is paid for by the Child Care Economic Developmental Grant from the state of Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

The current Cook County early childcare providers need a larger network! Their dedicated, excellent care simply cannot expand to take on more children.

Help us set the direction that will lead to a bright and prosperous future for our young ones.

Reach for the Stars

Early care and learning are critical to helping kids master the skills they’ll need to grow into healthy, well-adjusted members of the Cook County and Grand Portage communities. Children rely on their families and trusted childcare providers to fulfill core needs such as social interactions, learning independence, building self-confidence and fostering community. Childcare is vital to the safety and stability of our community, and our kids deserve the absolute best.

Cook County North Stars is an initiative created by the Cook County Public Health and Human Services Department (PHHS), the Cook County and Grand Marais Economic Development Authority and the Childcare Solutions Subcommittee to elevate childcare options and opportunities in our region. This initiative is paid for by the Child Care Economic Developmental Grant from the state of Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

The current Cook County early childcare providers need a larger network! Their dedicated, excellent care simply cannot expand to take on more children.

Help us set the direction that will lead to a bright and prosperous future for our young ones.

According to research, 90% of a child’s brain development happens by the time they turn 5 years old.

Uplift Our Community.

Communities throughout Cook County and Grand Portage feel the weight of the childcare burden. It places a significant strain on parents, employers and economic development across the region. In fact, the lack of childcare was the top unmet need of families with young children in Cook County, according to both parent and provider reports, from a study conducted in September 2021.

We set out to change that with significant investments and support for early care and learning providers. Our Wage Enhancement Payments Program and the Childcare Economic Development Grant from DEED provide funding to support increased childcare slots in Cook County and Grand Portage.

Join the Cook County North Stars initiative and become a part of the solution. Our funding provides:

  • Hiring bonuses
  • Monthly mentorship meetings
  • A pool of substitute providers
  • Access to training and technical assistance
  • Opportunities for providers to expand their programs
  • Access to start-up or expansion funding
Reach for the stars with us!

We have recruited
19 new providers
resulting in 65 new childcare spots —and we’re not stopping there! Become a provider today and help us create the 115 slots still needed for children in our community.

5 Reasons to Become an Early Care and Learning Professional

You can join an existing childcare center, start a new business from your home or volunteer your time and talents to enrich existing programs. Your involvement in this work is essential to our community. This is YOUR opportunity to shine with meaning and purpose.

yellow star with number 1 in center
Stability
Grow yourself and your career in a rewarding profession.
orange star with number 2 in center
Community
Contribute to your community’s overall wellness and prosperity.
green star with number 3 in center
Kids
Experience wonder and curiosity as you see the world through a child’s eyes again.
turquoise star with number 4 in center
Impact
Enrich your life. Your contribution will shape, grow and make a difference for families.
blue star with number 5 in center
Excitement
Enjoy dynamic work days. No two days are the same, and there is never a dull moment.

Shine Bright for Our Little Stars

Become a Childcare Provider
It’s a noble profession where you can have a forever impact on a child's life. We will help you grow strong relationships to support and build your business along the way.
Volunteer
For kids, every interaction counts. Volunteer your time to enhance their level of care and enrich their days.
Find High-Quality Childcare
Finding the right childcare solution can be tough. Explore great options here.

Become a Childcare Superstar

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Additional Cook County and Grand Portage Early Childhood media coverage, committee meeting minutes and previous research and finance reports can be found on the Cook County Public Health and Human Services childcare initiatives page.