Germantown child-care center gets greener

A Germantown-based childcare center is a little greener these days thanks to a recently completed training program funded by the state Environmental Protection Agency.

Childspace Too Day Care Center, 5517 Greene St.., was one of six centers in the region selected to participate in the initiative aimed at bringing eco-friendly practices to classrooms.

Childcare staff learned about sustainable, non-toxic practices and how to make them part of day-to-day operations. Upon completing the training, each center received $200 to help purchase sustainable classroom supplies.

They are not alone

A quartet of area organizations, including The Southeast Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center, was awarded the $25,000 grant.

“It’s definitely related to young people in our communities staying healthy and taking a proactive approach by not being surrounded by toxic chemicals during their time in daycare,” said Mara Lipshutz, the group’s executive director.

Women’s Health & Education Network, Pennsylvania Integrated Pest Management and Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children were also recipients.

Centers in Bucks, Montgomery and Delaware counties also took part in the training. Childspace was the only Philadelphia participant.