HIGHTSTOWN — Last year Better Beginnings Child Development Center of Hightstown was notified that it will lose 50 percent of the fourth-quarter grant from the United Way and next year will lose the full $90,000 from the United Way due to its own challenges in raising funds from its donors, the group said in a press release. This money was used for teacher salaries and operating expenses.
To compound this situation, the State of New Jersey has moved to a voucher system for Child Day Care. This new system has placed a new level of burdens and administrative support needed to meet the state requirements. Some of the state requirements have meant less income for Better Beginnings.
For example, new children can only start at the school on the first of the month. This means that an open seat vacated on the first week of month one, cannot be filled until three weeks later. So for those three weeks, there is no income for that child, however, the teacher and general operating expenses continue.
A priority is to help raise the funds necessary for keeping the Child Development Center open. T
The Shining Star Gala will honor individuals and organizations who make a difference in our communities and will take place on Saturday, May 4.
The center needs names of individuals, foundations, organizations, and youth groups from our communities who have dedicated themselves to the cause of helping others, and who should be honored at this year’s Gala.
This year there will be a Live Auction. There is a list of 51 baskets that need volunteers to sign up for to be auctioned off.
To learn more, visit www.betterbeginnings.net.
Nominations may to made to [email protected] or call 609 448 6226.

