Nestled in the heart of Cutten is a family childcare home owned by Belinda Johnson. Unlike any other in the vicinity, Belinda's facility stands out because of its innovative approach to learning—integrating cooking into the core curriculum. Here, children don't just read or hear about cooking; they get hands-on experience, preparing their own lunch twice a week. It's an immersive learning approach that intertwines life skills, teamwork, and creativity.
However, a few months ago, Belinda hit a roadblock. The stove, which was integral to her curriculum, gave out. Fortunately, with the support of the Facility Improvement Loan Forgiveness Program, Belinda was able to secure $10,000 to make substantial improvements to her facility.
Not only did she replace the old stove, she also invested in an array of new cooking equipment. One of the newest additions was a dedicated table in the kitchen, emphasizing family-style meals. But the improvements weren’t limited to just the kitchen. The facility also saw the addition of new outdoor equipment, enriching the overall experience for the kids.
Jade Hoff, the program manager, recently visited Belinda's facility to verify the completion of the endorsed projects. Belinda noted how excited the kids and parents were for these improvements, emphasizing how the heart of a classroom can be strengthened through the shared joys of learning.
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