DEER LODGE, Mont. — Montana's childcare sector faces challenges following a Jan. 17 incident where a drunk driver crashed into Wild Flowers Early Learning Center, the sole licensed facility in Powell County.
The crash caused significant damage to the center, which has served the community since 2018. Lisa Langley, director and owner, reported an increase in operational costs, including power bills that reached $800 per month as she worked to prevent pipe freezing.
No injuries were reported during the incident, and the facility was unoccupied at the time. In response to the damage, the daycare has relocated and reduced its capacity due to funding constraints. “We were overstaffed, basically, here. Our whole plan went out the window,” Langley said.
Langley stated that determining insurance coverage has been prolonged and uncertain. She emphasized the importance of community investment in local childcare, highlighting a lack of Head Start programs in the area. Langley has purchased land for a new center but requires financial support to move forward.
To assist in the efforts, she established a GoFundMe campaign. “It's important to have [a childcare center] in the community,” Langley added.
The community continues to seek clarity on future developments for the childcare center and its operations.