LiveWell Northwest Kansas Expands Family Resource Center and Early Childhood Support in Colby

For many families across northwest Kansas, support often begins long before a child steps into kindergarten. In Colby and throughout a multi-county region, LiveWell Northwest Kansas is working quietly — and steadily — to strengthen families from the earliest stages of life.

Cheyenne Schnider, Director of Programs for LiveWell, says the nonprofit’s mission centers on early childhood development, family stability, and accessible community resources.

“We serve children from birth to five years old through our early childhood block grant programs,” Schnider said during a recent interview.

LiveWell operates across a wide stretch of northwest Kansas, including Thomas, Sherman, Sheridan, Decatur, Norton, Graham, Wallace, Logan, Gove and Trego counties, among others. While many residents may recognize the organization’s name through partnerships or events, Schnider hopes more families become aware of the full scope of services available — many at no cost and without income restrictions.

At the heart of LiveWell’s work are its early childhood initiatives. The organization operates two daycare facilities under the name Kids Port in Colby, providing structured, research-based, play-focused learning environments.

The curriculum is designed around child development best practices, with trained early childhood specialists working directly with children. Play-based learning, consistent routines, and developmentally appropriate instruction form the foundation of daily programming.

Beyond childcare, LiveWell offers three home-visiting and parenting support programs:

These programs can be conducted in person or virtually and are aimed at strengthening parent-child relationships, supporting healthy behavior development, and helping families better understand early childhood milestones.

“We can meet families where they’re at,” Schnider explained, emphasizing flexibility in delivery and accessibility.

LiveWell staff also partner with regional schools and childcare centers through Early Childhood Initiatives (ECI). Specialists conduct classroom observations, developmental screenings, and provide consultation to teachers — particularly in smaller districts where resources can be limited.

In addition, the organization provides social-emotional consultation. Schnider personally works in classrooms helping children develop regulation skills, conflict resolution tools, and emotional awareness.

“It’s about giving teachers more tools in their toolbox and helping kids build those foundational skills early,” she said.

While LiveWell’s early childhood programs are longstanding, the organization is now placing a strong emphasis on expanding awareness of its Family Resource Center in Colby.

The center offers:

Through a partnership with Cairn Health and local grant funding, families can receive up to four over-the-counter items per week. There are no income requirements or lengthy applications — families simply provide basic contact information.

“Nothing we do is income-based,” Schnider said. “It’s about what a family needs.”

For those without reliable transportation, LiveWell staff are even willing to deliver items directly to a home.

The Family Resource Center is open during regular business hours, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and families may call 785-460-8177 for assistance or information.

Earlier this year, the organization partnered with Genesis-Thomas County to distribute hygiene supplies funded by a Thomas County Community Foundation grant. While that specific funding cycle has concluded, the Family Resource Center continues to operate with donated goods and grant-supported resources.

Schnider says a long-term goal is to create a larger, centralized hub — a welcoming space where families could attend parenting classes, access services, and participate in community programming.

“We want a place families feel comfortable walking into,” she said.

LiveWell also houses the Thomas County Coalition, supports the Colby Farmers Market, and assists with the Copeland Garden initiative, which provides opportunities for residents to grow their own produce.

Through maternal and child health outreach, school partnerships, behavioral consultation, insurance marketplace assistance, and early childhood programming, LiveWell’s reach extends well beyond what many residents may realize.

For Schnider, the mission is simple: make sure families know help is available.

“In this economy, something as small as over-the-counter medicine or diapers can make a big difference,” she said.

Families interested in learning more about LiveWell Northwest Kansas or accessing services can contact the Colby office directly or visit www.livewellnwk.org.

As LiveWell continues expanding its Family Resource Center and strengthening partnerships across northwest Kansas, organizers hope awareness will match the growing need — ensuring no family feels they have to navigate early childhood challenges alone.

by Derek White