NONPROFIT DAYCARE FIRE – A NEED FOR SUPPORT!

For the past 38 years, Montgomery Montessori School has served the Abington Township community providing early education. Karen Slifer, Director and staff , many who have been there for years, continue to provide a loving environment that benefits so many families. On Thursday, November 14, 2024, tragedy struck. A spark from a heating unit caused flames to engulf the roof resulting in a devastating fire that destroyed nearly everything inside of the facility.

The fire broke out around 12:45 p.m. while nearly 100 children were inside of the building. Karen and MMS Staff members sprang into action. They safely evacuated all of the children, including infants who were asleep, within just three minutes. A special “Thank You!” goes out to the following police & Fire departments: Abington, Bryn Athyn, Lower Moreland, Cheltenham, Huntingdon Valley, McKinley, and Rockledge.

Police and fire crews on the scene commended the MMS staff for their professionalism and for having such an efficient evacuation plan, which kept everyone calm and safe during what was a dangerous and frightening situation.

For the foreseeable future, these children and their families are without the familiar place they relied upon for daily care. Due to the flames and the water damage, nearly everything inside of the building is an entire loss. Tables, chairs, bookshelves, educational supplies, cribs, and other daycare equipment have all been destroyed.

Here’s where MMS alumni, friends and supporters can step in and assist with providing assistance through donations. These funds will go directly towards the costs of short term relocation and replacing items needed inside of the facility for both the staff and the children they care for on a daily basis. Karen has secured a temporary home and will continue to serve her families in January.

CALLING ALL ALUMNI

Anyone who knows Karen knows how much of her heart she has poured into the care of your children and the exceptional experience that was provided in all of the classrooms as well as the large 2nd floor space that were used at the school. Please consider donating so she can continue to provide the countless educational opportunities that we all know made this school a special place.

Once the investigation is complete and the school reopens we will need your continued support. If you or someone you know is good with tools and/or enjoys fixing things up, please reach out. Volunteers will also be needed once the school reopens.

Let’s support and help MMS through this difficult time knowing that they will continue to enrich and serve the children and families in their care!!

Anyone interested in helping in any way can contact Alicia.