Milford Childhood Learning Center Nears Debt-Free Goal with Nebraska’s Innovative Tax Credit Program
For Immediate Release
Contact: Dave Welsch
Phone: 402-826-9691
Email: dwelsch@westbluefarm.com
MILFORD, NE — The Milford Childhood Learning Center (MCLC) announces it is in the final stretch of achieving its debt-free status, with only $19,600 remaining to reach its $130,000 goal. Since opening its doors on June 3, 2024, the center has become a vital community resource, currently serving 44 children from 28 local families with quality full-time childcare.
"The support from Milford and surrounding communities has been nothing short of extraordinary," says Dave Welsch, MCLC Financial Sustainability Chairman. "In just six weeks of promoting the Nebraska Child Care Tax Credit opportunity, we've received $110,400 in donations."
The center, which operates as a nonprofit organization overseen by seven local community board members and staffed by 11 professionals, was established with three primary objectives:
- Provide quality childcare in a safe, nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten
- Offer previously unavailable infant care services (ages 6 weeks to 18 months)
- Ensure accessibility for all families regardless of financial resources
The total project cost of $1.2 million has been largely funded through $742,000 in grants and $333,000 in community donations. The remaining balance of $130,000 represents the final hurdle to achieving debt-free status.
Unique Tax Credit Opportunity
The Nebraska Child Care Tax Credit (LB754), which became effective January 1, 2024, offers Nebraskans a remarkable opportunity to support local childcare while receiving a 75-100% state income tax credit. Of the program's $2.5 million allocation, approximately $800,000 remains (as of early November 2024) available for qualified donations.
"This is a zero-cost way to keep your tax dollars working in your local community," explains Welsch. "MCLC donors receive a dollar-for-dollar credit against their state income taxes, making this an exceptional opportunity to support local families and strengthen our community infrastructure."
The MCLC is one of few providers in the county that accepts Nebraska’s state childcare subsidy via the AccessNebraska payment assistance program. Their participation in this program qualifies the MCLC for a 100% tax credit. This allows the MCLC to offer quality childcare access to all families, regardless of financial status.
Interested donors can contact Dave Welsch for pre-filled tax forms and assistance with the simple application process. The tax credit is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and donors are encouraged to act quickly as year-end applications are increasing.
About MCLC
The Milford Childhood Learning Center operates under the guidance of its Board of Directors:
Katie Spohn, Bruning Law Group
Tim Springer, Milford Mennonite Church
Dr. Brandon Henley, Memorial Health Care Systems
Mitch Kubicek, Milford Public Schools
Sid Burkey, Burkey Farms, Inc.
Dave Welsch
Susan Nitzsche
Ex-Officio Members
Kathi Schildt, Ex-Officio Executive Director
Sami Ahlers, MCLC Center Director
For more information about donation opportunities or the tax credit program, contact Dave Welsch at 402-826-9691 - dwelsch@westbluefarm.com or info@milfordchildhood.com.