Our History

The Grace Jones Community Day Care Center has been caring for the children of working families in the Florida Keys since 1958 when Grace Jones, a Bahamian immigrant, recognized the lack of services for minority children in our then racially segregated society.  Our “namesake” founded the Center over a half century ago so that all children in the Florida Keys had an equal opportunity to thrive and succeed. 

While the 60+ years of service by the Center can largely be perceived as a year-round delivery of award winning day care services for the children of working families, there are several milestones along these six decades that stand out.  The Center, year after year, continues to achieve the highest ratings (the prestigious Gold Seal School Award) from the State of Florida regarding our certifications, program delivery, and general effectiveness. 

Grace Jones has an established and healthy fundraising program that includes donations from long term financial supports, annual appeal letters, board driven fundraising events and community fundraising events. Funding is also received from County, State and Federal agencies. Because of our high ratings and award winning services we are able to obtain financial assistance directly for our students and their families.