Little Jewels Child Care and Enrichment Center to Close November 21
It is with great care and consideration that we share that Little Jewels Child Care and Enrichment Center will close at the end of the day on Friday, November 21.
This difficult decision by the Epworth Family Resources Board of Directors comes after months of effort to address a persistent shortage of qualified child care workers. Despite extensive recruiting and staff stepping in to help maintain operations, it has become impossible to meet the state’s required child-to-staff ratios and continue providing the level of care our families deserve.
The workforce shortage affecting Little Jewels reflects a larger challenge across Nebraska. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the state currently has only 70 available workers for every 100 open positions, with child care being one of the hardest-hit fields—especially in rural areas like York.
“Despite every effort to keep Little Jewels operating safely and effectively, the lack of available workers has made it impossible to continue,” said Margaret Donovan, CEO of Epworth Family Resources. “We are deeply grateful to our staff, families, and supporters who have stood by us through this challenging time.”
Epworth’s foster care and in-home family services programs will continue without interruption, as the organization remains committed to supporting children, youth, and families across Nebraska.
Since its founding in 1889, Epworth Family Resources has worked to bring hope and healing to children and families—and that mission will continue.
For more information, please contact:
Julie Troy
📧 [email protected]
📞 (402) 362-3353
This difficult decision by the Epworth Family Resources Board of Directors comes after months of effort to address a persistent shortage of qualified child care workers. Despite extensive recruiting and staff stepping in to help maintain operations, it has become impossible to meet the state’s required child-to-staff ratios and continue providing the level of care our families deserve.
The workforce shortage affecting Little Jewels reflects a larger challenge across Nebraska. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the state currently has only 70 available workers for every 100 open positions, with child care being one of the hardest-hit fields—especially in rural areas like York.
“Despite every effort to keep Little Jewels operating safely and effectively, the lack of available workers has made it impossible to continue,” said Margaret Donovan, CEO of Epworth Family Resources. “We are deeply grateful to our staff, families, and supporters who have stood by us through this challenging time.”
Epworth’s foster care and in-home family services programs will continue without interruption, as the organization remains committed to supporting children, youth, and families across Nebraska.
Since its founding in 1889, Epworth Family Resources has worked to bring hope and healing to children and families—and that mission will continue.
For more information, please contact:
Julie Troy
📧 [email protected]
📞 (402) 362-3353
The Center provides care for children 6 weeks to 5 years old.
We use a research-based, classroom-tested curriculum developed by Learning Beyond Paper. Our teachers use STEAM-focused learning topics and activities that can be adjusted to meet the individual child's learning level and goals.
To enroll your child, please contact the Center Director for an enrollment application.
Location: 216 W. 16th St., York, NE Phone: 402.363.7153
We use a research-based, classroom-tested curriculum developed by Learning Beyond Paper. Our teachers use STEAM-focused learning topics and activities that can be adjusted to meet the individual child's learning level and goals.
To enroll your child, please contact the Center Director for an enrollment application.
Location: 216 W. 16th St., York, NE Phone: 402.363.7153
our purpose
So that children may “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”- II Peter 3:18
our mission
To provide early education through an experiential approach, that focuses on meeting the individual needs of all children in an inspiring and evoking environment.
we believe
- Young children are a gift from God (Psalm 127:3). It is our integral role to provide a warm and safe, Christ-centered environment for young children to learn through exploration and hands-on, child guided experiences.
- Each child is unique. Our exemplar teachers guide children to grow socially by practicing problem-solving techniques. We model compassion and empathy for others, and help children develop a positive sense of self and appreciation for other cultures through a structured social emotional curriculum.
- Praise and positive reinforcement are effective methods of behavior management for children. When children receive positive, nonviolent, and understanding interactions from adults and others, they develop good self-concepts, problem solving abilities, and self-discipline. We use a positive approach to discipline and practice encouraging behavior management techniques.
- As we seek to obey our Lord’s command to “make disciples of all people,” (Matthew 28:19) we believe that quality child care should be available to all children, regardless of race, creed, income, disability, or sex. We seek to give children and families significant opportunities to grow and strengthen. In this effort, Little Jewels accepts Title XX (Child Care Subsidy).
- Although parents are the primary teachers, it truly takes a village to raise children. It is our role to support and further develop the nurturing environment that is already happening at home. It is our purpose to support the parents in their role, and to provide resources and guidance to at risk children and families.
step up to quality
Did you know 90 percent of brain development occurs before age 5?
Early learning builds the foundation for skills needed in school, work and life. Quality child care matters and that’s why we’re so proud to be a quality rated program through Step Up to Quality.
Learn more about Step Up to Quality at http://stepuptoquality.ne.gov/
Early learning builds the foundation for skills needed in school, work and life. Quality child care matters and that’s why we’re so proud to be a quality rated program through Step Up to Quality.
Learn more about Step Up to Quality at http://stepuptoquality.ne.gov/
🎧 New Podcast Alert: Growing Bright Futures with Heather Nunnenkamp 🌟
We're excited to share the latest episode of the 17 County Podcast, featuring Heather Nunnenkamp, Director of Little Jewels Childcare and Enrichment Center. In this episode, Heather discusses the center's commitment to nurturing young learners through a research-based curriculum and a family-first environment. Her insights highlight the importance of early childhood education in building strong foundations for the future.
🎙️ Listen now: Growing Bright Futures: A Look Inside Little Jewels with Heather Nunnenkamp
🎙️ Listen now: Growing Bright Futures: A Look Inside Little Jewels with Heather Nunnenkamp
What parents are saying
Elizabeth P.
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I am so thankful for Little Jewels and the personalized care they provide for my daughter.
I feel so at ease knowing she’s in good hands.
I feel so at ease knowing she’s in good hands.
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Tiffany S.
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My daughter was one of the first infants when the child care opened (now toddler group). Being a first time mommy, I was really nervous about leaving her alone all day. Little Jewels made the transition a lot easier by sending me a few pictures during the day and welcoming me to call and check up on her. When she got used to everyone there, she started learning so much. She started talking a lot more, created great friendships with kids and adults, and the best thing is she began learning about numbers and letters.
Little Jewels has taught my daughter so much more than what I would be able to do on my own.
With our lives being as crazy as it is, I’m so thankful for the ladies that work here.
They watch and care for my daughter as if she is one of their own.
Family is huge for them and it shows so much. I thank them for everything they do!
Little Jewels has taught my daughter so much more than what I would be able to do on my own.
With our lives being as crazy as it is, I’m so thankful for the ladies that work here.
They watch and care for my daughter as if she is one of their own.
Family is huge for them and it shows so much. I thank them for everything they do!
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Heather D.
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Little Jewels is the best child care- in YORK and I would even say in the state of Nebraska! The caregivers there treat your child like their own and willingly give their love , open their hearts and special attention to each one of their little ones. I cherish every day my kids got to spend there!!
Thank you Little Jewels for taking wonderful care of my kids!
Thank you Little Jewels for taking wonderful care of my kids!
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For more information, please contact our Center's Director - 402.363.7153