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The Sisters of the Mother of God Monastery have announced that the Little Blessings daycare project at the Village of Harmony Hill has reached its funding goals and is officially moving ahead.
The project will renovate the former St. Ann’s Hall at the monastery in order to relocate the Family Worship Center’s Little Blessings daycare—which will be rebranded to Our Little Village Learning Center—and provide care for children up to 5 years old.
As proposed, the new facility will be 14,000 square feet with the capacity of 225 children, adding 100 slots to what Little Blessings offers. The project’s total cost, estimated at $2.5 million, includes construction, renovation, furnishings, technology, and playground equipment—all essential to meet state licensing and safety requirements.
In September, the Watertown City Council and Codington County Commissioners acknowledged the urgency of this project and the lack of other childcare options in town by pledging $350,000 and $150,000, respectively. These funds helped the monastery secure a state $500,000 South Dakota Works Loan.
Additionally, the Mother of God Monastery has invested over $200,000 in consultants, architectural plans, and development fees and has committed another $300,000, along with donating the building and land.
Community donations already exceed $85,000 from local businesses, churches, and community members. The Watertown Development Company has also redirected its usual funding toward the childcare initiative to the project. However, a funding gap remains, and community support is essential to advance the project.
“Watertown’s families and workforce depend on access to affordable, quality childcare,” shares Sister Barbara Younger. “This center will provide a much-needed solution, supporting both parents and local businesses. Once operational, it will be self-sustaining, but we need the community’s support to get there.”
The community is invited to an Open House on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 5-7 p.m. at the future site of Our Little Village Learning Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the center’s plans and how they can support this vital project. The Groundbreaking Ceremony will follow on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 1 p.m.
