Dear Families and Friends of Home Away From Home,

It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I share this news with you. Since opening our doors in 1996, I have been truly grateful for the many children and families who have joined us on this journey. Unfortunately, our journey will soon come to a close: on October 31, 2025, Home Away From Home will end operations and close its doors for good. I hope our valued staff will remain with us until then; however, if circumstances require them to move on sooner, the closure may occur earlier. After thorough consideration, we have determined that there is no other viable option.

Reasons for Closure

• Rising Operating Costs: Over time, our expenses have increased sharply, including a 250% rise in property taxes, a 200% increase in liability insurance, and a 50% reduction in reimbursement from the Food Program.
• Personal Challenges: On a personal level, various challenges—including health concerns—have made it harder for me to provide the level of care and attention that our children deserve each day.
• Reduced Support: While government assistance during Covid allowed us to keep going, the shift toward universal preschool has resulted in less support for smaller programs like ours.

Thank you to every family who has chosen and trusted us with your children’s care and education. The past 29 years have been an incredible blessing. AS things wind down, I will be looking for homes for all the equipment and supplies that we have accumulated. If there is anything in particular that you would like please feel free to reach out. I will also be scheduling 2 Saturdays in November to sell as much as possible. please let me know if you are interested.

Much love,

Ann Bouwhuis