(KNZA)--Efforts to open a child care facility in Highland move forward.

The non-for-profit group, Doniphan Darlings, has entered into a 10-year, $1 lease with USD 111 for use of the former Doniphan West elementary school building to house the child care facility.

The building needs about $80,000 in renovations prior to opening.

The group is currently raising funds to help cover the renovation costs, with about $12,000 secured to date.

In addition, the group plans to seeks to Community Development Block Grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce to help with the project.

Ben Gilmore, representing Doniphan Darlings, met with the Doniphan County Commission on Monday to seek approval to apply for the grant under the county's authority.

The Commission voted unanimously to allow the group to seek the grant, which requires a 25 percent local match.

According to the 2019 Child Care Supply Demand Report, Doniphan County was ranked 6th worst in the state for childcare needs, with 40 or more children per one child care opening.