GIBB Assumes Control of Childcare Center

In February, Goodwill Industries – Big Bend assumed control of Dick Howser Child Care Center to assist them in financial and administrative needs to help keep the center from being shut down. We have pledged $150,000 to help them restructure. We will offer administrative assistance to keep the center operating and hire an executive director.

Dick Howser Child Care Center has served children ages birth to 5 years old since 1974. For many years, they have been next door to our main facility on Mabry Street. Their Early Intervention Program provides training and therapy for children with developmental disabilities including Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Down’s Syndrome, mental retardation, Muscular Dystrophy, and genetic disorders. Their Preschool Program provides preschool for peers or siblings age 6 weeks to 3 years. It is the only program of its kind in this area.

By helping these children in their early years, they will be more prepared to reach their fullest potential as productive and self-supporting adults. Maybe they won’t need our services as adults, but even if they do, they will be they will be better prepared to succeed through job placement programs.

There is also the incentive to keep the center operating so that parents can keep working. Many of these special needs children would not be accepted in other day care program, forcing a parent to stay home to care for them.

Our goal is to help these centers regain financial stability and continue helping children with special needs receive the therapy and training essential for their proper development.