FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – BOONE NC
December 8, 2025
Foscoe Companies announces that President Missy Harrill has made a $50,000 gift to the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Early Childcare and Development Fund. Her contribution will provide immediate support to licensed childcare centers across Watauga County during a period of significant financial strain for the industry.
Harrill’s personal donation is paired with additional Foundation resources totaling $62,500, allowing funds to be distributed directly to every licensed childcare center in the county. The investment places specific emphasis on family childcare center homes, which play an essential role in serving working families in Watauga County.
“I was stunned to learn that the childcare centers in our area serve the families of over 700 local businesses. Without this precious resource, our local economy takes a dramatic hit,” said Harrill. “It is with this fragile dynamic in mind that I chose to make a donation to help stabilize what is arguably one of the most important industries in the Boone area and across the state of North Carolina.”
Grant allocations are based on the number of children each center serves, with funding dedicated to stabilizing operations or supporting families experiencing childcare hardships. In addition to licensed childcare centers, the allocation reaches licensed Pre-K classrooms and afterschool programs throughout Watauga County.
The Early Childcare and Development Fund was established to protect and expand access to reliable, high-quality childcare, a cornerstone of workforce participation and regional economic strength. By reinforcing childcare center budgets, Harrill’s gift helps uphold the infrastructure that allows parents to work and children to thrive.
“Through the kindness of individuals and community-minded local businesses, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation has seen incredible engagement in support of the childcare industry over the last year,” said David Jackson, President and CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. “Missy’s personal commitment to safe, strong, and stable childcare benefits our entire community, and we know she will inspire others to consider how they can support this vital industry.”
Smaller family childcare homes will benefit significantly from the allocation due to their tighter margins and essential role in providing personalized, home-based care.
“There is no question the childcare financial crisis is affecting local childcare centers and families more and more each day,” said Halee Hartley, Owner of Kid Cove. “With stabilization grants ending and no expected state funding before summer 2026, Missy Harrill’s personal gift to The BACC Early Care Fund has provided the timely support we desperately needed. I believe I speak for every provider in the county when I express our gratitude for the security this brings as we approach Christmas.”
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation continues to work with partners and donors to strengthen the childcare sector. Those wishing to contribute can contact the Foundation for giving opportunities.
“I’ve had the privilege of delivering many of these checks to childcare center directors, and the needs and budget constraints vary widely,” said Ethan Dodson, Director of Development for the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “Whether it’s food costs, bills, or tuition delays, our childcare providers need all the support they can get to continue providing safe and effective care.”
About the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen the economic vitality and quality of life in Watauga County. Through strategic philanthropy and community partnerships, the Foundation addresses critical needs in workforce development, education, and economic infrastructure.
About Foscoe Companies
Founded in 1987, Foscoe Companies is built on a legacy rooted deeply in the High Country, creating communities designed for family and for the way people want to live today. Under the leadership of President Missy Harrill and CEO Jay Harrill, the company continues to develop and steward thoughtfully designed residential communities, including Legacy Ridge at Echota.
Photo Credits: Nick Fogleman