SUNSHINE SCHOOL PARTNERS

Dear Sunshine School Partners,

Like everyone right now, Sunshine School & Development Center is learning to survive in this new world. Unprecedented . . . challenging . . . what now?. . . new normal . . . these are just a few of the phrases we hear every day now. Through this time, though, Sunshine School is determined to fulfill our mission in new and creative ways. One of our core organizational values is innovation. We are definitely flexing that value in this new environment.

While our preschool center is closed, we were lucky to receive a payroll protection loan, so we are able to keep our amazing staff employed and they are interacting with those we serve in new and different ways. Our Community Support program has continued to operate and serve individuals in the community, keeping them safe in their homes, while trying to find creative activities. We have begun teletherapy, allowing our occupational, physical, speech-language, and behavioral/mental health therapists to continue to provide vital services and ensure children can still work on skills and prevent regression. Our teaching staff are creating packets for children to continue to learn at home and our special education specialists are checking in with families to assist children with developmental milestones.

Through this all, we are so grateful for the support of our community. We were amazed as our Sunshine Champions helped us raise almost $40,000 in just one week early in this crisis. We continue to be blessed each day by our amazing supporters like you - donating funds as well as needed supplies like masks and gloves to keep our staff safe. Your support through this all means that we can continue our mission now - and be sustainable when we return to our “new normal”.

Stay safe and well,

Cyndi Bilyeu

CEO, Sunshine School & Development Center