BCNC was honored to welcome Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley to our Acorn Center for Early Education and Care to celebrate recent capital improvements made possible through federal, state, local, and philanthropic support. Joining us were Commissioner Amy Kershaw of the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, TeeAra Dias from the Boston Public Schools Pre-K program, Theresa Jordan from Children’s Investment Fund, Eva Millona from the Eastern Bank Foundation, and BCNC parents Debbie Lay and Lynne Cui.

“Accessible, high-quality early childhood education is not only essential to the success of our babies, but of entire families,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “BCNC provides a vital lifeline to families in the Massachusetts 7^th. I’m proud to support the BCNC’s dedicated educators and staff who work to support every family and every child who benefits from this program.”

“BCNC is deeply grateful for Congresswoman Pressley’s support in renovating and improving our child care center, which serves Asian and immigrant children and families,” said CEO Ben Hires. “This capital investment in our space is about creating a welcoming and safe environment for all the children and families we serve who have come to Boston to make a better life.” 

Referring to the center’s long history, Hires noted, “This 20-year-old building has welcomed hundreds of children. It sits in one of the hottest, densest neighborhoods in Boston, with limited access to green space or playgrounds. We wanted to invest in our classrooms, create a nature-themed playground, and repair sunshades to protect children from the heat. Community Project Funding has allowed us to continue our mission, so BCNC is a safe, welcoming place in Chinatown for families to find opportunity.”

Led by Kathy Cheng, Director of BCNC Acorn Center for Early Education and Care, Congresswoman Pressley toured the classrooms where children learn, rest, and grow. Michele Dandrea, BCNC Lead Teacher shared, “Thanks to the funding, our teachers were able to use their expertise to create beautiful, trauma-informed classrooms where children feel safe and welcome.”

Following the site visit and a roundtable discussion, Congresswoman Pressley met with community members, staff, and children to celebrate the $425,000 in federal Community Project Funding delivered to BCNC from the FY2024 federal spending bill signed by President Biden. Read more here.