The St. Andrews Optimist Club recently welcomed representatives from Children’s Garden, a program overseen by Vital Connections of the Midlands. The informative session featured Anita Robinson, Director of Children’s Garden, Althea Benson, Education Manager, and John Brown, Executive Director of Vital Connections.
Children’s Garden, supported by the Optimist Club in the past, focuses on providing daycare, feeding, and education services to children from homeless families or those in low-income situations. The program caters to children up to two and a half years old, offering a secure environment while their parents are working or seeking employment. Once children age out, they can transition to becoming clients of Early Head Start.
The speakers emphasized the ongoing needs of Children’s Garden, including diapers, wipes, and food items, as the program accommodates eight to twelve children per class, with up to four teachers. The care provided by Children’s Garden ensures a safe haven for children and supports their early development.
With plans pending licensing and certification, Children’s Garden aims to relocate to a new building in the Columbia College area, continuing its mission to serve the community. In an average year, the program reaches over 100 children, contributing to their well-being and development. The Optimist Club remains committed to supporting initiatives like Children’s Garden that make a positive impact on local communities.
Pictured are Optimist speaker sponsor Gary Boyd, Anita Robinson, John Brown, and Althea Benson.
