Lil’ Cats Recognized as Texas Small Employer of the Year and Local Employer of Excellence

Abilene, Texas – Recognizing Contributions to Early Childhood Education

Lil’ Cats Daycare and Lil’ Indians Daycare, operated by Nichole and Josh Hale, have garnered accolades as the Small Employer of the Year from the Texas Workforce Commission. This honor underscores the significant role these establishments play in providing essential childcare services in rural communities, thereby supporting working families and local economies throughout West Central Texas.

The recognition, facilitated through a nomination by Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas, places the Hales’ daycare facilities among three exemplary finalists in the state. Additionally, they have been acknowledged as the West Central Texas Local Employer of Excellence, highlighting their commitment to quality care and community engagement.

Nichole Hale expressed heartfelt gratitude for the achievement, stating, “We would not have been able to make this happen without our wonderful staff and families that we serve. They are the backbone of our business and make it all possible.” This acknowledgment reflects the critical partnership between local employers, their staff, and the families they serve.

Established in Coleman in 2016, Lil’ Cats Daycare initially had the capacity to accommodate 30 children. Through collaboration with Texas Workforce Solutions and the Coleman Economic Development Corporation, the facility received a ,324 expansion grant aimed at enhancing childcare availability. This investment has allowed Lil’ Cats to double its capacity, thereby addressing a pressing need for quality childcare in the region.

Furthermore, Lil’ Cats Daycare played an instrumental role in responding to the childcare crisis in Haskell. In Spring 2023, the community faced the potential loss of its only childcare facility. The Hales swiftly expanded their operations to launch Lil’ Indians Daycare, partnering with Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas and the Development Corporation of Haskell. This strategic move not only preserved childcare access for local families but also created five full-time jobs, strengthening the local workforce.

“Our goal is to continue expanding and meeting the demand for high-quality childcare in rural communities,” added Hale. Their initiatives serve as a model of how local businesses can positively impact community dynamics, fostering economic stability and social well-being.

As childcare shortages persist across many rural areas in Texas, the efforts of Nichole and Josh Hale underscore the vital role that dedicated small businesses play in creating resilient communities. Their commitment to providing quality care not only supports families but also contributes to the overall economic health of the regions they serve.