Redwood County is in Southwest Minnesota. Redwood is known as an area where progress and growth are firmly grounded in history. There is a wealth of heritage and scenic beauty along the Redwood River that feeds into the Minnesota River Valley in Redwood County. Redwood County reported having 15,361 residents in the 2022 census.

​

Lack of child care opportunities remain a major barrier to economic development and growth in the county. As child care has become an economic development issue throughout the county, providers are seeking outside employment because it generally offers more consistent schedules, higher incomes, less stress, and better benefits. Businesses across the county are significantly struggling to hire and retain staff as a result of the lack of affordable and accessible child care. Due to this barrier, parents are forced to take extended leave from work or leave the workforce altogether, as they cannot find child care within reasonable timeframes or wait for extended periods before their reserved spot becomes available.

 

Redwood County is committed to sustaining, increasing, and improving the supply of child care to strengthen their economy and further their workforce development. To support workforce development, retention, and economic growth, Redwood County is participating in the Rural Child Care Innovation Program to explore and implement local and right-sized solutions to address child care challenges.