FORT MYERS, Fla. - s4story -- Child Care of Southwest Florida will reopen a fifth early learning center as The Children's Garden of Labelle welcomes back students on June 29.

The nonprofit organization has reopened its centers in phases after implementing numerous safety procedures to protect the health and well-being of students and staff.

The Children's Garden of LaBelle, located at 88 S. Main St. in LaBelle, temporarily closed March 27 because of COVID-19. The center underwent a thorough deep cleaning and staff have sanitized all toys, books, desks and touchpoints throughout each classroom.

"Hendry County only has a handful of early learning centers, so our team worked diligently to make sure The Children's Garden could reopen as soon as it was safe," said Chris Hansen, CEO of Child Care of Southwest Florida. "Children have been out of school for three months, and reopening our center in LaBelle will help students reengage in the learning process while allowing parents to get back to work."

Child Care of Southwest Florida has already reopened three centers in Fort Myers – Joseph H. Messina Children's Center, P.A. Geraci Child Development Center and The Children's Learning Center – as well as The Community Children's Center in Lehigh Acres.

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Child Care of Southwest Florida implemented the following safety procedures as centers reopen:

·         All children will undergo daily temperature checks and health screenings. Children with symptoms will be asked to stay home.

·         Parents must drop off their children at the front lobby or entrance. Visitors will not be permitted to enter hallways or classrooms.

·         Staff members and children ages 3 and older will be required to wear protective face masks.

·         Classrooms will operate at reduced capacities based on state and federal guidance.

·         Learning facilities and classroom supplies will be thoroughly cleaned nightly, while touchpoints will be sanitized throughout the day.

Child Care of Southwest Florida is accepting new student registrations for all locations. Scholarship assistance also is available, and nutritious meals and snacks are included at no additional charge through the USDA's Child Food Care Program. Visit http://www.CCSWFL.org or call 239-278-1002 for more information on programs and costs.