A Heartfelt Plea from Johaly Almeyda

Owner, Jojo Academy Child Care Center, Philadelphia

Dear friends, family, and beloved community, 01/21/2026

My name is Johaly Almeyda, and I am reaching out to you with hope and an open heart. For over seven years, I have poured everything I have into building Jojo Academy Child Care Center—a safe, nurturing place where children are loved, inspired, and supported every single day. I am so proud of the community we’ve created together, and I am determined to keep it alive—but right now, I need your help.

On February 20th, 2025, a devastating two-car accident—a hit-and-run—tore through our fence and one of our walls. Miraculously, no children or staff were harmed, but the damage left our building unsafe. We were forced to close our doors, and 80 families suddenly had to find new care for their children. The damage was so severe that we could not pass city or state inspections, and even now, I am still fighting for fair compensation from insurance, as they refuse to cover the damage or renew our policy without updated inspections.

This has been a heartbreaking setback. The loss of income has led to mounting bills, late rent, and overwhelming financial stress. At the time of the accident, I was on the brink of opening a second location—a dream that would allow us to serve even more families in need. But with our first center closed, those dreams are now at risk. I have already invested over $300,000 to reopen our new daycare center, but I still need your support to make this vision a reality.

Why Your Help Matters

Jojo Academy is more than just a business—it’s a lifeline for families in our city. Philadelphia faces a critical shortage of quality childcare, and Jojo Academy has always stepped up to fill that gap. My team and I are committed to providing a nurturing, stimulating environment where children can thrive and parents can work with peace of mind. When we reopen, Jojo Academy will employ over 40 full-time staff and will operate from 5AM to midnight, serving more than 200 children—including infants—in a safe, welcoming space.

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With your support, I can realize my dream of creating a true community hub—a place where children, families, and neighbors of all ages can come together, learn, and grow.

My Vision: A Community Hub for All

My commitment to Philadelphia goes far beyond childcare. I have ambitious plans to give back to our community by opening our new Jojo Academy location as a vibrant social center. Each evening, after regular childcare hours, I will donate my time and our space to host free, supportive programs for all ages:

· Mondays: Special needs children activities

· Tuesdays: Elderly social program

· Wednesdays: Women’s social program

· Thursdays: Men’s social program

· Fridays: Teen nights

These programs will run for four hours each evening, creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone—children, teens, adults, and seniors—can connect, learn, and support one another. My vision is to make Jojo Academy not only a place for childcare, but a true anchor for our community.

How Your Donation Will Be Used

I am committed to full transparency. Every dollar raised will go directly toward reopening and sustaining Jojo Academy’s new location. Here’s how your support will make a difference:

· Zoning: $9,000

· Sprinklers: $35,000

· Fire Alarms: $28,000

· Safety Items for Kids: $15,000

· Costs to Open the Location: $38,000

· Working Capital (until business stabilizes): $10,000

Total Goal: $135,000

Join Me in Making a Difference

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If Jojo Academy’s mission speaks to you, or if you simply want to help a small business rooted in compassion and community, please consider donating or sharing our story. Every contribution—no matter the size—brings us one step closer to reopening our doors and restoring hope to our community.

If you can give—thank you.If you can share—thank you.If you’re rooting for us—we feel it, and thank you.

Together, we can help Jojo Academy rebuild, reopen, and become a true community hub for Philadelphia.

With love and gratitude,

Johaly Almeyda