Little Lights Daycare Expands to Fulfill Critical Need for Overnight Childcare in Hazle Township
LUZERNE COUNTY, PA — Recognizing the expanding demand for childcare services in Luzerne County, Little Lights Daycare in Hazle Township is preparing to extend its operating hours to 24 hours a day, six days a week, starting January 1, 2024. The initiative aims to address the unique needs of working parents, particularly those employed in industries that require overnight shifts.
Bry Gresh, the owner of Little Lights Daycare, understands the challenges of balancing the demands of work and parenting firsthand. She became a mother at the age of 18, navigating the complexities of single parenthood while striving to maintain a career. “There wasn’t much available besides family support, which is beneficial but not accessible to everyone,” Gresh noted. Her personal journey has fueled her commitment to making childcare more accessible and inclusive for all families.
The daycare currently serves children aged one year and older, operating daily from 5 a.m. to midnight. The decision to expand to 24-hour service comes as a response to the needs expressed by local parents, particularly those employed at nearby industrial facilities, such as those in Valmont Industrial Park. “Many parents are factory workers or healthcare professionals,” Gresh explained. “They reached out to us about the difficulties of finding reliable overnight care for their children, which became a clear signal that the demand was present.”
The expansion of Little Lights Daycare is more than just an operational change; it represents a collaborative effort with local employers. According to Gresh, the availability of dependable overnight childcare is essential not only for families but also for businesses. “They need that care to ensure their employees can work effectively,” she remarked. This partnership highlights a symbiotic relationship between the daycare and local industries, making it easier for employers to recruit and retain staff.
While the daycare’s primary goal is to provide safe and nurturing care for children, it also aims to become an integral part of the community. By extending hours, Little Lights Daycare aspires to fill a critical gap in the local childcare landscape, thereby helping families manage the increasingly complex demands of modern life.
“As we move forward, we are focused on creating a stable environment for working families,” Gresh affirmed. With this strategic expansion, Little Lights Daycare not only fulfills a personal dream but also hopes to positively impact the broader community. As more families seek flexible childcare solutions, facilities like Little Lights are crucial in supporting working parents, thus enhancing the overall economic stability within the region.
