For nearly two decades, Little Flowers Early Childhood & Development Center has been a beacon of hope for children and families in Baltimore’s Sandtown-Winchester community

Founded in 2008 by the late Crystal Hardy-Flowers, Little Flowers was built on the belief that every child deserves access to quality early childhood education regardless of their family’s income. Crystal devoted her life to serving Baltimore’s most vulnerable children and families and was recognized locally and nationally for her work in the community. Little Flowers has served hundreds of children and families and has become a trusted resource for education, family support, and community development.

 Flowers Early Childhood & Development Center has been a beacon of support for working families and their children in Baltimore for years. We provide affordable childcare and essential services, nurturing the youngest members of our community and helping parents to work and better their lives. However, the recent proposal from the Archdiocese of Baltimore to increase our monthly rent from $2,500 to $6,000 threatens this mission. Additionally, the requirement for our nonprofit to cover major building expenses such as electrical, plumbing, and boiler repairs further jeopardizes our ability to continue.

We currently operate as a nonprofit, with our resources meticulously planned to prioritize educational programs and child-centric services. This unexpected surge in expenses could result in reduced services, making it difficult for some families to access necessary care. The increased financial strain may force us to hike childcare fees, inadvertently pushing away the very families we aim to support.

In Baltimore, where access to affordable childcare is already a challenge, the community relies on us. We have a responsibility to protect this essential service for the parents and children that depend on us. Studies show that early childhood education is crucial for children's development, providing long-term benefits in educational attainment and social behavior. Removing or reducing these services significantly harms the community we are dedicated to serving.

We call upon the Archdiocese of Baltimore to reconsider this decision and work with us to find a sustainable solution. We are asking the Archdiocese of Baltimore to reconsider these terms and work collaboratively with Little Flowers to reach a fair agreement that protects both the building and the families who depend on our services.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the continuation of affordable and essential childcare services in Baltimore. Help us ensure that Little Flowers can keep blooming, providing vital services to our community's future and its children.

Little Flowers is more than a childcare center. It is a safe place, a support system, and a legacy of service. Your signature can make a difference in preserving this vital community service. Many things can wait, but our children cannot! Please sign and share this petition to show your support.