Gateway Children's Charity

Invest in the Earliest Years

In St. Louis, thousands of children lack access to high-quality early childhood education—at a time when their brains are developing faster than at any other point in life. The first five years lay the foundation for everything that follows: school success, career readiness, and lifelong well-being.

Yet the reality is stark. The true cost of quality infant care exceeds $30,000 per year, creating a system that is out of reach for many families and unsustainable for providers. The result? Fewer available seats, under-resourced classrooms, and missed opportunities for children who need it most.

Gateway Children’s Charity is working to change that.

Through targeted, high-impact investments, we fund local early childhood programs and organizations to expand access, strengthen quality, and support the children, educators, and families at the heart of our community. Every dollar raised stays in St. Louis—directly supporting classrooms, materials, and critical improvements that help children learn, grow, and thrive.

This Give STL Day, you have the power to make a lasting impact.

When you give to Gateway Children’s Charity, you’re not just supporting child care—you’re investing in the future of St. Louis.