“Our parents have organized this fundraiser to save our preschool “Caterpillars”. This is for us, as young children who are entitled to preschool education and for the future children of Crosshaven who will also need this service. There are currently not enough preschool places for all of our friends in Crosshaven and we’d really love your help in making sure we can go back to our school in September.” - Caterpillars

I am sure you are all aware, the childcare industry in Ireland is facing many challenges. As parents of children currently attending Caterpillars Montessori we have recently come face to face with some of these. The main issue has been securing a permanent location for the school to operate from. Caterpillars Montessori have secured a new location and can operate from the Youth Club, which is attached to the Crosshaven community Centre in Crosshaven Village.

However there is a planning condition that needs to be met to get the school fully operational for September 2024. It is a one off Cork County Council Fee of €2,500. This is a Development Contribution Fee which is part of Caterpillars planning conditions. This has to be paid by June 1st.

So far the parents have contributed towards this and this has been added to the Go Fund Me and we are looking for your help with the shortfall. This fee will be paid directly to Cork County Council from us, the parents.

We have been notified that the school will close if this fee is not paid. We greatly appreciate any help you can give us in securing a permanent preschool facility for present and future children of Crosshaven.

This Go Fund Me has been organised by Heather Haitse, Aoife Kelleher & Lisa Duggan!