Oregon Health & Science University

By listening to their workforce, OHSU knew that their professors, scientists, staff, and students would value a quality, on-site child care center. They just needed to find a provider who shared their values to bring their mission to life. OHSU was looking for an expert in early childhood education who could deliver high-quality care during flexible hours, accommodate a busy hospital, and create a center that felt like an extension of the campus.

OHSU partnered with KinderCare Education at Work to build the Healthy Starts Learning Center, which embodies all of OHSU’s values and sets children up for academic, social, and emotional success. 

Healthy Starts features the most current research-based curriculum, sustainable business practices from an Eco-Healthy Child Care® endorsement, and daily fresh, organic meals made from locally sourced ingredients (created in partnership with a KinderCare nutritionist). The center also boasts an indoor playground with four retractable doors, great for the unpredictable Pacific Northwest climate. Rain or shine, Healthy Starts kids will always be able to play in the fresh air.

Soon after opening the center, OHSU expanded their child care benefits to extend tuition savings to their working families. From 2016 to 2019, more than 400 families took advantage of the Tuition Benefit for their 482 children. Collectively, families saved $760,000 in child care costs over that time.