BAR HARBOR — Youngsters’ Nook is holding a one-day on-line fundraiser on Feb. 22 to assist its mission of inspiring curiosity and love of studying. The fundraiser will kick off at 8 a.m. with the aim of elevating $10,000 in on-line donations that shall be matched by neighborhood organizations. 

Youngsters’ Nook is a nonprofit, community-based youngster care heart in Bar Harbor for kids from 6 weeks previous to the time they enroll in kindergarten.  

The kid care trade has been struggling since earlier than COVID-19, and the pandemic is impacting Youngsters’ Nook and different youngster care services on Mount Desert Island, based on a press launch from the group. Revenue margins are tight, and COVID-19 brings further bills of cleansing prices and private protecting tools. There are additionally mandated shutdowns, decrease enrollments and elevated instructor turnover that have an effect on the underside line. 

Enrollment at Youngsters’ Nook has been decrease since its reopening after its preliminary COVID-19 closure in March of 2020. In keeping with the middle, that is primarily because of the pointers set by the Middle for Illness Management (CDC) however staffing challenges have additionally taken a toll.  

Youngsters’ Nook’s Govt Director Lori Krupke stays constructive concerning the heart, the youngsters and the long run. “To say I’m pleased with our instructing staff is an understatement. As I learn of a worldwide labor disaster, I see a staff of devoted professionals who masks up, and willingly pour 110 % of themselves into their work with the kids,” Krupke stated.  

To assist the fundraiser, go to www.kidscornerbarharbor.org. Mail-in donations may even be accepted. Make checks payable to Youngsters’ Nook and mail to 81 Mt. Desert St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609.