New Washer and Dryer

Last month, our old (very old) washer and dryer decided not to work any more. We weren't sure what to do, but through the suggestion of a staff member, we contacted Lutheran Church Charities about our need. Through the generous donation of $1000 from an anonymous family, we were able to replace the old units with new Kenmore appliances. (The old units were so old that with the help of one of our parents, we had to change the obsolete outlet on the dryer!) What a blessing the new appliances have been! We are very grateful for the gift that will enable us to wash the sheets and blankets used at nap time. We only hope that these new units will last as long as the old ones.
From all of us at Lutheran Day, "thank you!"

A Sad Ending for Hull House

Hull House, founded by Nobel Prize-winning social worker Jane Addams 122 years ago, has declared bankruptcy and will be closing its doors in spring 2012. The venerable institution was not receiving enough private donations to off-set the cuts in state funding for its programs and services for children and families.

The closure of Hull House highlights the struggles that many not-for-profit agencies are facing with regards to finances. State funds are being cut or eliminated and private donations have dwindled. Foundation grants have become increasingly competitive and limited. The result: cutbacks of services or closure.

Lutheran Day Nursery has also suffered as a result of cuts in state funding. We are so grateful for the donations we receive from churches and individuals, but we also have experienced a decline in our support base. While closure in not in our future, we are increasingly faced with difficult decisions about staffing and programs. Please consider increasing your support for our programs in 2012. You can make an online donation at our website: www.lutherandaynursery.org. Thank you.

Welcome 2012

Happy New Year! We're excited about 2012. New children are enrolling and we are expecting lots of growth and development throughout the building. But before we say goodbye to 2011, we encourage you to view the video of our December Christmas program. Follow the link to see short clips of our children singing, performing the Christmas story and bringing us lots of good cheer. http://www.youtube.com/user/vancilfamily1?feature=watch

Pastor Ray Launches New Children's Book

Pastor Ray has authored a children's book, Blow Wind Blow. The book launched on December 14 where he read the story to gathered families. Illustrated by Logan Square resident Alyson Beaton, the book tells the story of a young boy who is faced with a big decision. Though illustrated for children, the story has a message for all ages. For more information about the book, visit www.growbookspress.com.

A Very Merry Christmas Program.

The stage of Lutheran Day Nursery was transformed into a Christmas wonderland in preparation for our annual Christmas program on December 13. Over 50 parents and friends gathered to watch as the children performed holiday songs and a play depicting the events of the first Christmas. The teachers put lots of extra time and effort to make sure the children did their best. It was a wonderful program and a fitting start to everyone's Christmas celebration!

Special thanks to Lavinia Morozan, one of our parents, who created amazing costumes for the play; to Lilly Rodriguez and Sonia Pantoja, who did a spectacular job decorating the recreation room; and to the classroom staff for their great work with the kids.

To see pictures of the program, go to www.flickr.com/lutherandaynursery. Watch for a video of the program coming soon.

Community Service Learning

The children in Ms. Bennett's class participated in their own community service projects this month. First, with the help from families in Room 2B, they collected canned goods for a local food pantry. They learn counting skills while they also learn about helping others in need. Then, they turned athletic socks into snowmen. Ms. Bennett delivered the special socks to the residents of a suburban nursing home, many of whom are on Medicaid. Thanks, Ms. Bennett, for teaching the children the value of caring and sharing.