SPRING GROVE, Minn. (KTTC) — A rural community lost an asset when its largest daycare center suddenly closed last week. Now more than 60 children are left without care and families are facing a major problem.
“Our whole routine was turned upside down in just one weekend,” said father Mitch Primus.
Primus’ two young children attended Little Gnome Daycare in Spring Grove until it suddenly closed on August 10, citing years of financial difficulties by the owner.
“Having to explain to my three-year-old that we are no longer going to school honestly broke his heart,” Primus said.
Although the city is not responsible for the matter, according to city clerk Jana Elton, the matter is a municipal problem.
“We have to do whatever we have to do to provide for our families,” Elton said.
The city has organized meetings to find a solution and asked retirees to consider helping younger families in the meantime.
“Cities are working behind the scenes to build, support and help new businesses get started,” Elton explained.
Primus is also involved in staff development; he is currently helping over 20 former employees plan their next steps. Unfortunately, Primus said it may take some time before the community finds a long-term solution.
“We will not create 80 childcare places overnight. Unfortunately, that will take some time,” said Primus.
Without affordable local childcare, the consequences would not only affect families, but potentially the entire city.
“They’re going to move out of our town. They’re going to drop out of our schools and go shopping somewhere else. So it’s going to be a problem for the whole community,” Elton said.
Both Elton and Primus explained that this problem affects not only their community, but the entire state.
Elton said if you are interested in helping families, contact them for more information.
Find stories like this and more in our apps.
All rights reserved.
