Early Childhood Learning Center Operator

Chatham County and East Savannah United (ESU) are seeking a qualified operator for an Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) through RFP No. 25-0087-5, with proposals due on July 29, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. The center will provide high-quality childcare services for approximately 144 children aged 6 weeks to 3 years, with a priority focus on families within the East Savannah service area. A WebEx pre-proposal conference is scheduled for July 15, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. The ideal operator will have experience managing quality-rated facilities, navigating federal funding sources, implementing USDA food programming, and working effectively with low-income communities while maintaining compliance with state licensing requirements. Evaluation criteria will include the proposer's experience, staff qualifications, financial stability, MBE/WBE participation, and a comprehensive fee proposal detailing weekly rates for different age groups. The contract will be structured for six one-year terms with potential automatic renewal, not exceeding six years without a new solicitation process.

The procurement includes opportunities for Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBE) participation, with specific compliance forms required in the solicitation documents. Two known proposers have already acknowledged the first addendum: 3E Collective Limited Co. from Savannah, GA, and Learning Care Group, Inc. from Novi, MI, with the latter noted as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE). The 22,000-square-foot facility will be located on approximately 9.3 acres owned by the Housing Authority of Savannah, situated in an area with over 400 new and rehabbed apartments. The center is part of a broader Purpose Built Communities initiative aimed at reducing poverty and improving education. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the project will utilize SPLOST funds for furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The facility features a commercial kitchen, standalone HVAC and plumbing systems, and is currently zoned for daycare use, with an anticipated opening in September 2026 and initial operating hours of 6 A.M. to 6 P.M.