December 2025 Newsletter

Director's Corner

Dear UPK Families,

As the leaves turn and our classrooms buzz with curiosity, I’m reminded how powerful a community of caring people can be. To our partners, churches, friends, and “faithful few” who have made generous donations—thank you. Your gifts directly enrich the educational experiences and the overall health of our children. From classroom materials, take home food boxes ,and literacy kits to field trips that expand their world. Because of you, learning here feels joyful and possible.

This fall, our teachers are weaving hands-on learning into every day—nature walks, pumpkin math, cozy circle times, and lots of storytelling. Your encouragement keeps our little ones exploring, building confidence, and discovering their voices.

We’re also gearing up for our annual Holiday Gift-Giving to ensure every child feels seen and celebrated.

Gift drop-off deadline: December 18 at 5:00 PM (thank you for helping us sort and deliver on time!). Questions about gift ideas or drop-off? Email me and I’ll send our wish list and guidelines aimee@unipreskindercottage.org.

Looking ahead, we are committed to strengthening our services through scholarship support. Scholarships help bridge the gap for families facing short-term hardship so children can remain in stable, high-quality care at Uni Pres Kindercottage. We aim to increase our scholarship fund this season. If you are able to help sponsor a child’s tuition—at any level—please reach out to me directly at aimee@unipreskindercottage.org. Your gift will make an immediate and lasting impact.

With gratitude for all you do,

Aimee Washington-Hart

Executive Director

Uni Pres Kindercottage

Journey to the North Pole🚂

Our little travelers experienced the magic of the season on our Polar Express adventure! From boarding the festive train to enjoying holiday music, cozy moments, and special surprises, the children were filled with wonder from start to finish. It was a heartwarming trip that brought the story to life and created memories we’ll cherish all winter long! A special thank you to Mr. Brent, one of our dedicated board members, who ensures that our children and families share in unforgettable holiday memories.

Winter Fun around the Center😊

The chilly weather hasn’t slowed us down one bit! From cozy indoor activities to snowy outdoor adventures, the children are staying active, curious, and full of joy. These photos highlight the laughter, creativity, and special moments that make our winter days at the center so memorable.

❄️ Winter Cheer: Staff Outing & Community Giving

This season, our team came together both to celebrate and to give back. Our staff enjoyed a joyful winter outing filled with laughter, connection, and well-deserved relaxation — a wonderful reminder of the strong, caring community behind our center. A heartfelt thank you to our generous donor who understands that caregivers need caring for too. Your kindness truly makes a difference.

We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the generous donors who contributed to our winter donation drive. Your generosity helped provide warmth and essentials to those in need, showing our children the true spirit of kindness and giving during the holiday season.

🎁Holiday Gift Giving at Uni Pres Kindercottage🎁

The holiday season is a time of joy, generosity, and giving—and at Uni Pres Kindercottage, we’re once again preparing to share that joy with the children and families we serve.

If you are able to bring some holiday cheer to our little ones this season, here’s how you can give:

Contact Aimee Hart at aimee@unipreskindercottage.org or text 618-799-1417.

If you would like UPK to shop on your behalf, please send your contribution by Thursday, December 12th. We accept gift cards to Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Please note E- Card to the email listed above is a very safe and easy way to secure the cards instead of the postal service. Bringing it to the center is also a preferred option.
If you prefer to purchase the gifts yourself, please plan to drop them off by Wednesday, December 18th.

This year, we are serving twice as many children as last year, and your kindness will help ensure that every child feels the joy and magic of Christmas. Your generosity makes a lasting difference for families most in need—thank you for helping us make this season brighter for them all.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Staff and Board of Uni Pres Kindercottage