Listen to this articleA Work of Heart, a childcare center in Huntington Station, has completed a nearly $1 million expansion.
With the help of a $120,000 Empire State Development Grant, the project has increased the facility’s capacity from 59 to 79 children and created seven new full-time jobs. The project was recommended to ESD by the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council.
“This expansion is a milestone for our program and the Huntington Station community,” said Andrea Holmes, president of A Work of Heart, in a news release about the expansion.
“It’s not just about adding spaces – it’s about creating a nurturing environment where children thrive and parents can work with peace of mind,” she added. “We’re excited to continue being a cornerstone of childcare in our community, truly living up to our name as A Work of Heart.”
The expansion comes at a time when the region bears a critical need for quality childcare to support working families and local economic growth. To address the growing demand for its childcare services, the expansion project involved renovating 1,461 square feet across two buildings, converting a one-story residence into an infant and toddler care center and transforming a detached garage into administrative offices. Comprehensive site improvements enhanced safety and accessibility, featuring a new sanitary system, expanded parking and upgraded walkways.
The project was designed to expand childcare to support working parents, contribute to the area’s economic vitality, and reinforces A Work of Heart’s dedication to community development.
“Quality childcare is not just a family issue – it’s an economic imperative,” Hope Knight, ESD president and CEO, said in the news release.
“Our investment in A Work of Heart’s expansion recognizes that when parents have access to reliable, high-quality childcare, they are empowered to be active participants in their careers and professional pursuits,” Knight added. “This initiative goes beyond expanding facilities – it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive economy for Long Island.”
ESD Board Chairman Kevin Law said the expansion was good for parents and businesses in the region.
“Access to quality childcare is essential for a thriving workforce and vibrant communities,” Law said in the news release. “A Work of Heart’s expansion is an investment not just in children, but in the economic future of Huntington Station and all of Long Island. By helping to create new jobs and support working families, this project underscores our commitment to fostering sustainable growth and ensuring that Long Island remains a place where both families and businesses can flourish.”
Established 18 years ago, A Work of Heart provides preschool, summer camp and childcare programs for children aged six weeks to five years. Its curriculum is designed to emphasize developmentally appropriate care that integrates play-based learning with academic readiness, fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth in a supportive setting. The center aims to deliver an inclusive environment, specialized programs in music and art, as well as nurture children and support families to strengthen the local community.