Support James Place: Save Our Childcare Center

James Place Child Development Center (JP) has been a staple in Bellingham’s early childhood education environment since 2011. JP serves children from birth through age 5 and provides employment for 13 early childhood educators. It is a 100% Woman Owned Business supporting families in need of childcare by offering an environment where children know they are safe, nurtured, and respected. Early childhood education programs are limited in our community; currently, Bellingham has less than 10 operational childcare centers that serve children starting before age 1. JP operates with more than a bottom line in mind, prioritizing fair wages, staffing ratios that exceed state regulations by 30-50%, and exceptional care for children.

JP’s success has been attainable in part because of the support of Hollander Hospitality, the building owner from which JP rents its space. The building owner has continuously provided financial accommodation and has propped up an aging building, allowing JP to pursue its goals. However, the roof is in need of significant repairs and the building owner has made the difficult decision to begin the process of closing the building. JP has been presented with two options: A) close operations by spring of 2025, or B) fund up to $20,000 of the roof repairs, allowing operations to continue with a renewed lease agreement for up to 3 years while JP searches for a new Bellingham location.

Requesting funding assistance for a tenant-funded roof repair may rightfully be met with skepticism or antipathy. It was only after discussions between the building owner, JP staff, families of currently enrolled children, roofing contractors, and local government and non-profit funding sources, that the goodwill long afforded by the building owner and the financial complexities of childcare funding have come into focus. Staff and families have assuaged our concerns of tenant-funded repairs, and it is us – the staff and families – that are now asking for your support. Fixing the roof will afford JP three years to develop and plan its next chapter and will allow this vital organization to continue to serve families and children in our community for many years to come.

Supporting children and families is essential to our vibrant community. Parents of past, present, and future JP kiddos are your local teachers, small business owners, public servants, friends, and neighbors. Your generosity is an investment in our children and our community. Thank you.