Grand Opening of the Mississippi Child Care Resource and Referral Center

Simpson County and surrounding area residents are invited to attend the Grand Opening of the Mississippi Child Care Resource and Referral (MSCCR&R) at MSU-Extension site located at the Co-Lin Simpson County campus on June 27, 2023. A ribbon-cutting event will take place at 11:00 a.m.

The MSCCR&R at MSU Extension was created to provide access to developmentally appropriate educational resources, referral support, and enrichment for the citizens of Mississippi. This includes children, families, community members, and early childhood students/teachers/providers. Another important role of the CCR&R is to bridge child-care and education to promote school readiness.

“I am so excited that the R&R program will be fully realized in Simpson county.  This has been a dream of mine since 2016!” said Project Director Tara L. Dickerson, Ph.D., who presented the more than six years ago. Due to lack of funding, the project has been on hold since that time. Funding became available in October, 2022, and Dickerson took on the role of project director on November 1.

“One of my first goals as PD was to work with Dr. Anika Floyd to have a fully staffed and operational Resource & Referral at Co-Lin! I could not be any happier to see this dream coming into reality!” she said. “The MSCCR&R at MSU Extension/Co-Lin Simpson County Center will be a great asset to Magee, Mendenhall, and surrounding areas!”

The MSCCR&R at MSU Extension sites house early childhood resources and a “maker space,” a space to create educational materials/activities. Each site also contains a lending library with a variety of learning materials and toys for early childhood professionals, children, and families in the community. These items can be checked out, at no cost, for up to 14 days.

“We would love for everyone to come by and visit and use these resources!” said Dickerson.

The R&R hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours on Tuesdays from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. On the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, the R&R will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. These days may vary with holidays.  The R&R will also hold monthly community events, which will  provide a fun and educational time for everyone in the community.

“As a Magee High School alumna, I am truly excited to work together with Simpson County stakeholders to improve the lives of children and families,” said Dickerson.