Our Story
Compassion Child Care opened its doors in April of 2012. The need for affordable childcare in downtown Sioux Falls was evident, but we were surprised at how quickly working-poor families began to reach out for help. Within six months, Compassion Child Care was full, providing services for ninety-two children ages five weeks to five years old. We have served over 350 children and ministered to over 200 families by providing excellent childcare and connecting parents with counseling, job training and other resources. We have been amazed at God's goodness.
Understanding the Need for Scholarship Families
The largest obstacle to overcome for low-income families searching for child care is cost. A person working full-time for $18/hour who has two children (ages 2&5) will spend at least 40% of their take-home income on day care. The need goes beyond finances to a greater need for a place where children will hear about Jesus and experience the compassion of Jesus in their care. There is no child care facility that currently is evangelical in their programming and specifically seeking to provide care to those with lower incomes. Compassion Child Care aims to bridge that gap and offer a fulfilling experience for children and families.
A wrong turn in the past…maybe one bad decision, or a bad upbringing, or unforeseen circumstance, such as an illness has compromised stability for these families. Finances are on the edge in spite of the fact many of these families are working hard. Parents, many of whom are single moms, even work multiple jobs and try to get ahead but are hindered in their employment efforts as they have worked their way out of some welfare safety nets. Families are forced to make difficult decisions during the formative years of a child’s life. Siblings may end up caring for younger siblings in unsafe environments. Arguments and stress may cause further fractures in relationships, and can have lasting impacts on the children. These factors put the entire family at risk and the cycle of poverty will continue.
CORE VALUES
Christian
We will seek to emulate Christ in our interactions with all children, their parents, and the community. Our approach will be an intentional one, using every aspect of our daycare program (art, music, language, etc) to share the good news of Jesus Christ. We will strive to treat all children with the dignity, equality, and respect they deserve as children created in the image of God.
Affordable
We exist to empower low-income families with the means to access certified, comprehensive childcare at a price that enables them to stabilize their overall financial life. We provide scholarships to families in relation to their income and life circumstance.
Educational
We are a responsible partner in offering educational development to all children. We offer age-appropriate educational programs and set development goals for each child. We will communicate with parents regularly on educational and development goals.
Holistic
Our desire is to see families flourish spiritually, physically, emotionally, and financially. Therefore, we seek to connect parents with resources to budget effectively, receive counseling, and meet additional needs they have. A unique housing program is also available for single mothers through CCC that provides a place for a mother and her child(ren) to be refreshed spiritually, physically, financially, and emotionally.