The former Richland County Early Childhood Center located at 255 Hedges Street has been officially transferred from the Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Richland Newhope) to its new owner the Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission (Head Start) on October 23 with the finalization of the sale of the property.
This project has been in the works for the past several months as both parties have worked through the logistics of the physical moves and the legal paperwork. Richland Newhope and Head Start have been working together at this location for the past several years as Head Start was a primary lessor in the building.
“We found ourselves in a situation where we just didn’t need the space as we no longer operate a school program,” stated Superintendent Michele Giess. “As we were talking about what to do with the building moving forward, approaching Head Start to purchase the building was quickly identified as a plausible option to research.”
Newhope had developed a great relationship with Head Start as they were already utilizing space in the building for their growing program.
“We are thrilled that the school will continue to be used to support young children in this community,” said Giess.
Another positive note, Head Start is allowing Richland Newhope to lease a small amount of space back from them for their Early Intervention and Therapy services.
“We really see this as a win-win for both organizations and the community as a whole,” added Giess.
Source, Photo: Richland Newhope
