Bartlett Center to pause operations, leaders call for help
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Bartlett Center leaders are calling for community support after failed state fire and health inspections are preventing a new provider from operating the facility.
According to a Facebook post in the "Friends of Bartlett Center" Facebook group, Bartlett Center board member Tama Wagner posted on behalf of the entire board, saying childcare services at the center will pause beginning Thursday, Oct. 8.
Failed inspections prevent the YMCA, the center's new provider, from obtaining an operating license to continue facility programs.
Bartlett Center staff and parents were informed of the situation Thursday, Oct. 1, according to the post.
"We recognize that this news is difficult for the children, families and staff who depend on the Bartlett Center," the post detailed. "We also recognize the uncertainty and disruption this creates for families who are already balancing work, childcare and other responsibilities."
Now, the center is calling on community help, as its immediate priority is to address the concerns identified by state inspectors.
"Over the coming weeks, Bartlett Center families, staff, community supporters and the City will work together to complete needed cleaning, organizing, painting and other improvements in an effort to address the inspection findings and help move the facility toward state licensing," Wagner said.
The center will host volunteers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 and/or Sunday, Oct. 4. Volunteers will be needed throughout the day to help: deep clean, organize, paint, general cleanup and preparation.
Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Interim Bartlett Center Director Angie Cruse at 816-344-3633.
"Whether you can give a few hours, help with a specific task, or organize a group of volunteers, your contribution can make a meaningful difference," Wagner said.
In addition, the post detailed that supporters of the Midtown community will host a panel discussion focused on the future of the Bartlett Center.
The panel will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, in the Bartlett Center Gymnasium. Community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions and participate in conversation about the future!
"The Bartlett Center has served children and families in our community for years," said Wagner. "While the current circumstances are difficult, we are grateful for the people who continue to show up, lend a hand and work toward solutions."
