Berkshire South Opens Toddler Childcare Program to Meet Community Need

10:55AM / Thursday, June 25, 2026Print Story | Email Story

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Berkshire South Regional Community Center has officially opened a new EEC-Licensed Toddler Care program, expanding access to early childhood education and care for families in the southern Berkshires.

The new state-licensed program serves children ages 15 to 33 months and was created in response to a growing shortage of infant and toddler childcare options in the region. Even before opening, the program generated strong interest from local families and quickly established a waitlist.

According to a press release, across Berkshire County and throughout Massachusetts, families continue to face limited childcare availability, long waitlists, and rising costs. Berkshire South developed the Toddler Care program to help address this community need while supporting working families and strengthening long-term community well-being.

"We knew we needed to respond to the critical need for early childhood care in southern Berkshire County," said Jenise Lucey, Executive Director at Berkshire South. "It's one more way we can support families, strengthen connections, and build a healthier, more resilient community."

The year-round program operates Monday through Friday and is staffed by certified early childhood educators. The curriculum emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, individualized attention, and consistent routines that help young children build confidence and curiosity in a nurturing environment. The program is peanut and tree nut-free and can accommodate additional food allergies.

The launch builds on Berkshire South's broader commitment to children, youth, and families through programs including Sunshine Preschool, Out-of-School childcare, school vacation programs, and summer day camp.

Toddler Care families also receive Berkshire South membership benefits and discounts on many youth and family programs. Financial assistance is also available.

For more information visit berkshiresouth.org/toddlercare.

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Victim Identified in Fatal Richmond Crash

Staff ReportsiBerkshires
11:23AM / Friday, October 30, 2026

RICHMOND, Mass. — A 25-year-old South County man died Thursday in the fiery crash on Route 41.

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office on Friday reported that the victim was Christopher Lee Kilmer, 25.

The single-vehicle accident took place on Route 41 in Richmond near 2715 State Road. A Hyundai Sonata driven by Kilmer was travelling northbound when it crossed into the southbound lane and off the road; the car was engulfed in flames when first responders arrived.

According to the DA's Office, West Stockbridge Fire and County Ambulance declared Kilmer dead at 9:53 a.m. when the Fire Department "was able to extinguish the fire."

"It was at this time (when the fire was extinguished) that first responders observed a single occupant in the vehicle and made the declaration of death," according to the press release.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has taken custody of the body.

On Friday morning, several South County fire departments posted tributes on Facebook to Kilmer, who they reported was a member of the West Stockbridge and Alford fire departments.

"Every first responder carries a fear that one day the next emergency call will involve someone they know, a friend, a neighbor, or someone they love. But perhaps the greatest fear of all is when that call involves one of our own," the post read.