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Lillianne Condez
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. - May. 31, 2022
Dennison Memorial Community Center offers an array of programs for children living in the South End of New Bedford. One of these programs that is a great aid to our community is Dennison’s options for childcare. There are two childcare programs to choose from and multiple payment options that families can utilize, so let us break it down.
DAYCARE PROGRAM
The Daycare Program at Dennison Memorial was established in 1986 and then led by director Joe Neves in 1987. Joe Neves has 35 years of experience with children. The daycare program is state licenced for School Age and focuses on building social skills, self-esteem, and academic achievement.
Families enrolled in the daycare program have the option to utilize the transportation program, snack program, and physical fitness activities. The snack program follows guidelines provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
The daycare program has a 13 to 1 staff ratio and all staff are site-certified, meaning they are trained to be able to run the daycare program if the Director cannot be on site, CPR and First Aid certified, as well as vaccinated for COVID-19.
Operating on the second floor of Dennison Memorial Community Center, the daycare program hours are Monday through Friday 2:00pm to 6:00pm during the school year and 7:30am - 3:30pm during vacation weeks.
DAYCARE PROGRAM PAYMENT OPTIONS
The daycare program accepts vouchers through PACE Referral or Private Payments.
Private Fee Payments are as follows:
Part-time $23.93 per day
Full-time $42.14 per day
Transportation is provided with a separate fee as follows:
One Way - $12 per day
Round Trip - $18 per day
WALK-IN PROGRAM
The walk-in program is separate from the Daycare Program and enrolls children as young as first grade and throughout high school. There is no membership fee for the Walk-in Program but children can be enrolled by filling out an application at the center.
The Walk-in Program provides children with various resources that they can choose from, this is because it is a self-choose program. Resources included in the program are access to the Dennison Center Gymnasium, Playground, Computer Room, Activities Room where children can play appropriate video games, pool, and air hockey. Snack is provided during the school year and lunch is provided during the summer based on USDA guidelines and follows a no nut policy to ensure food safety for all students.
In order to ensure the safety of the Walk-In Program’s students and staff, once a child enters the building they are not allowed to leave. If a person leaves the building they are not allowed re-entry for the day and will have to return the next day.
While in the center, there are college students who come into the center to help students with their academic achievement. Throughout the year, mentors from University of Massachusetts Dartmouth will mentor and tutor students under internship or through the American Reach Program for work-study. This is in hopes of encouraging academic success and empowering Dennison Kids through mentorship.
In the summertime, the walk-in program changes and provides opportunities for positive experiences for those enrolled. Children in the walk-in program are invited to go on free field trips with a signed permission slip. These field trips include going to the Fall River Community Pool, Museums, and many other places. The walk-in program also provides students with the opportunity to bike ride in the warmer months.
While looking for childcare that is affordable, educational, and fun for your child or a child you know, we hope you will consider Dennison Memorial Community Center’s childcare programs as a safe and affordable option for your family.
If you are interested in enrolling your child in one of Dennison’s childcare programs, please contact Joe Neves at 508.996.2691.
About Dennison Memorial Community Center.
Dennison Memorial Community Center is a historical part of the Southend of New Bedford, providing youth programs designed to encourage, educate, and empower children between the ages of 6-16 within the Southend area. Since our founding in 1868, Dennison has placed focus on the building of community the betterment of people within that community. Dennison is located on South First Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and can answer any questions you have on our website, dennisoncommunity.org.
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