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NHSA and MATA help shorten the distance from bus stop to Southwest’s Head Start center

By Victoria Brown

Southwest’s Head Start children and officials at the NHSA/MATA ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 23.
Southwest’s Head Start children and officials at the
NHSA/MATA ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 23.

The National Head Start Association (NHSA), in partnership with the Civic Mapping Initiative and Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA), hosted a ribbon-cutting event for a relocated bus stop at Southwest Tennessee Community College’s Macon Cove Campus on Oct. 23, 2023. 

The new bus stop will make transportation more accessible for student-parents and local families who utilize the campus’ Head Start program and Child Care Center.

According to statistics from the NHSA, only about 42% of Head Start programs have a bus stop that is within walking distance to families in the area. Memphis is one of the first few cities nationally to participate in the relocation of Head Start bus stops.

In an article released by MATA, CEO Gary Rosenfeld said the following: “We’re thrilled to be a part of this innovative initiative that affects the next generation and directly benefits our families and children in Memphis. This collaboration shows public transit has the power to elevate the lives of infants, toddlers and children of all ages.”

Dr. Tracy Hall, president of Southwest, spoke at the event and shared her own special connection with Head Start. Hall recalled how her mother utilized the program when she was a child, and the long walks they took from the bus stop to the school. 

“Anyone who's ever had a little child, and you had to carry any packages along with holding that child’s hand, will understand how fantastic of a move this is and how great this day is for many parents and their children,” said Hall. She said the relocated bus stop is representative of the College’s continual focus to remove any barriers to student success. Currently, the College’s Macon Cove and Union Avenue campuses child care centers serve 32 children and their families.

Parents and families who utilize the Head Start program can find the bus stop at the Porter-Leath Early Head Start Center, located in the Child Care Center on the Macon Cove Campus. 

Enrollment is now open for the Pre-K 2023-2024 school year at the Campus Kids Corner. For more information about eligibility, enrollment, and the center’s discounted program for student-parents, visit Southwest Child Care.