Over the last few months, MacKenzie and her family have worked hard to repair and renovate the building, complete permit requirements, and prepare for inspections so the building can reopen as a childcare center for local families. A significant amount of personal time, effort, and financial investment has already gone into improving the property and preparing for the building to open as a licensed childcare program again. Family, friends, volunteers, contractors, and community members have also contributed their time, skills, resources, and support.

MacKenzie is a military spouse, educator, mom, and early childhood professional with over 14 years of experience in the field. She has dedicated her time to renovating this building and has pushed through the challenges of starting this business while her husband is deployed. 

Our goal is to provide reliable, quality childcare that families in Jacksonville can depend on. This week, we learned of a possible change involving the future ownership of the property. This unexpected change has created uncertainty about how this could impact the lease agreement and the work already invested in the property. We have had to pause work and shift our attention toward advocating for the opportunity to remain in this location. 

This situation does not only affect one family or one business. It affects the children who need care, the families searching for dependable childcare, future employees, and the Jacksonville community. Quality childcare supports working parents, strengthens families, and helps create consistency for children.

This building has gone through multiple ownership and program changes over the years. Our hope is to help change that by bringing consistency, reliability, and a clear vision to this location. At this time, we are not in a position to purchase the property for what it is worth in this area, but our hope was to work toward that possibility in the future. 

By signing this petition, you are showing support for quality childcare, continued investment in this location, and the opportunity for Early Education Partners LLC to keep moving forward. Supporters are also encouraged to leave a comment for the property owners, whether you know Mackenzie personally, have seen the work that has gone into this project, or believe that quality childcare and consistency matter to our community.

Any media inquiries, investors, or individuals interested in supporting this effort can reach out to MacKenzie at 910-358-9642.