Today, something incredible happened. David did not beat Goliath, but he spoke so loudly that Goliath had to listen. They came to an understanding.

In a letter released by Hackensack Meridian Health CEO Robert Garrett, the organization committed to reversing its decision to end its on-site childcare programs.

While details are still few, the document serves as a written commitment to keep the centers open. This writer was also informed that affected team members of the childcare centers have been awarded a retention bonus – a sign of HMH doubling down on its commitment to keep the centers open, and keep the amazing team members that staff them, provided they remain through what was originally the amended closure date of the centers.

There is still much to be done, and we are not completely out of the woods, but this is a heartwarming step in the right direction. 

I believe the path forward is through trust and teamwork. I would caution all against further rhetoric based in anger. Instead, our conversation should shift toward cooperation and creative partnership as we offer ourselves – our ideas, our time, and our patience – in crafting a harmonized program that meets the needs of all. 

HMH made a mistake. We called them on it. They recognized it. They took action. 

We can’t ask for more than that, at least not right now. Now we simply ask them to build upon this new moment. Use it as a springboard toward transparency, open communication, and decision-making rooted in the common good. This was not The Boy Who Cried Wolf. This was a reaction to a serious decision that had broad-sweeping ramifications across a profound number people – and the reaction was pure and justified. 

We have strong voices and have brought forward amazing suggestions. We intend to have a seat at the table in future discussions. 

As we enter the weekend, my hope is that all can rejoice. Spend some time reflecting on the support you’ve provided, and for some, the support you’ve received. Feel validated. Feel valued. 

The ball is HMH Leadership’s court. We’re counting on them to continue moving this in the right direction. We know how to respond if they don’t. 

My final thought, however, is that trust is earned over time. A trust broken needs even longer to heal. Emotional healing is sometimes more difficult than physical. I ask that while healing, you not become complacent. We’ve been handed a promise, nothing more. HMH’s actions will prove their true and honest intentions. We can give them some time to act, but we must also remain vigilant. Continue spreading awareness. Continue to rally support on this petition. Continue to post creative and collaborative content on the Facebook page. Continue to make your voices heard in constructive and forward-thinking context. We should accept this olive branch graciously, yet cautiously.  Our rhetoric should turn positive.  On calls and in emails we should accept what has been offered while still working to impress upon leadership the importance of the programs without cutting into them for making such a bad decision.    They've accepted responsibility - so we can no longer blame.  We just need to push onward with our eyes on what we want going forward. 

When they go low, we go high. 

Thank you to all who have contributed and continue to contribute to this campaign.