Gretchen's House to Offer Morning, Afternoon Childcare for Chelsea Students

Chelsea Community Hospital has announced that it will close its daycare center by the end of September.

The center, which cares for 48 toddlers in its preschool program, as well as 100 children in its school-age program, is citing program costs and a shift in the hospital's overall mission in its decision to close by Sept. 30.

In a letter addressed to parents, hospital CEO Nancy Graebner said the hospital has entered into a management agreement with Gretchen's House, a childcare center in Ann Arbor.

"This was a difficult decision for Chelsea Community Hospital to make, and was not taken lightly," Graebner wrote. "We sought many avenues to continue all of the child care in its current capacity, but in the end, a viable solution could not be found."

The school-age program will continue under the ownership and management of Gretchen's House, according to an article in the Chelsea Standard. On Sept. 4, Gretchen's House will take over the before- and after-school program held at North Creek Elementary School.

Gretchen Preston, president of Gretchen’s House, said the daycare center will charge $173 per month for full-time morning care, and $251 per month for full-time after school care. There is also a one-time non-refundable registration fee of $50 per child.

Graebner said the hospital considered several daycare options, but ultimately decided on contracting with Gretchen’s House because the center's mission regarding childhood development is closely aligned with the mission of Chelsea Community Hospital.

"We expect this to be a seamless transition for parents," Preston said.

For more information, or to register for daycare, visit the Gretchen's House website or call 734-761-2576.