A group of solo parents in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental has opened a learning center for young children with assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

Called the Kids Center for Learnings and Amusement, the facility located in Barangay II is being managed by the Himamaylan City Solo Parents Association.

In a report on Wednesday, the DSWD-Western Visayas said the 24-member association received a total seed capital fund of PHP200,000 in February to establish the project.

“We express our gratitude to the SLP for providing livelihood opportunities and source of income to the solo parents,” City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) head Ever Grace Castro said.

Castro expressed CSWDO’s commitment to continuously support the facility by providing personnel to assist in its implementation.

The Kids Center for Learnings and Amusement offers educational and recreational services provided by volunteer solo parents, who are mostly day care center teachers.

Designed for children aged four to 10 years, the facility can serve about 20 clients for five hours each day with a fee charged on an hourly basis.

“It’s a place for kids to learn, play and have fun,” the association said.

SLP provincial coordinator Ramil Raquit advised the Himamaylan City Solo Parents Association to manage their project well as it has a potential to be replicated in other cities and municipalities.

In a social media post, Glory Day Antolo, president of the city’s Solo Parent Federation, said the Kids Center for Learnings and Amusement is “more than just a center” but also “a symbol of hope, empowerment, and a brighter future for our children.”

She said they also accept donations of books and toys for the facility. (PNA)