From Opportunity House
Opportunity House announces the opening of the Patton Avenue Learning Center. This new early childhood education facility will provide high-quality, affordable childcare to families in the Oakbrook community of Reading. This initiative was made possible through a strong collaboration between Reading Housing Authority and Opportunity House, underscoring both organizations’ commitment to improving outcomes for families in underserved neighborhoods.
The Patton Avenue Learning Center will provide high-quality early childhood education for up to 65 children from ages 6 weeks to kindergarten enrollment. The Patton Avenue Learning Center is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering working families reliable and accessible childcare that supports both early childhood development and economic stability.
Heading the new center is Yessenia Vasquez, a seasoned early childhood education professional and Reading native, with over 18 years of experience at the YMCA and the United Way of Berks County. Vasquez is joined by Emily Cumens, who will serve as Assistant Director. Together, they lead a passionate team committed to nurturing and educating children during their most critical developmental years.
Located in the heart of Oakbrook Homes, one of Reading’s largest public housing developments, the center is designed to meet families where they are. “I am looking forward to taking my experience in childcare to a community I grew up in,” said Vasquez. “Every child deserves a chance at quality childcare. The first five years are so important in a child’s development. I am excited for my team and myself to provide quality care to the Oakbrook community.”
The Patton Avenue Learning Center is actively working toward achieving a Keystone STARS 4 rating, the highest possible in Pennsylvania’s quality rating system for early childhood education. A STAR 4 designation recognizes centers that meet exemplary standards in teacher credentials, learning environment, family partnerships, and continuous program improvement. “Working at the YMCA, I was proud to be part of helping our center achieve STAR 4 accreditation,” said Vasquez. “We’re committed to doing the same here, because our community deserves nothing less.”
Alyssa Bushkie, Chief Executive Officer at Opportunity House, praised the partnership and long-term impact of the project: “Providing affordable early childhood education is essential to building lasting stability for families. Through our partnership with Reading Housing Authority, we’ve created more than just a childcare center — we’ve built a resource that empowers families, strengthens our community, and gives every child a strong start.”
This new center is a key component of Opportunity House’s long-term strategy to reduce systemic barriers, expand access to high-quality learning, and prepare children and families for success from the very beginning.
About Opportunity House
Opportunity House is a multi-service organization in Reading, PA, committed to improving the quality of life for children, families, and individuals who face barriers to stability and independence. From emergency shelter and transitional housing to reentry services and community programs, Opportunity House is a catalyst for personal and community transformation.
About Second Street Learning Center
A program of Opportunity House, the Second Street Learning Center provides high-quality, affordable early childhood education and childcare to families in Berks County. Accredited and Keystone STARS-rated, the center serves children from six weeks to 13 years old, preparing them for lifelong learning and success in a safe and nurturing environment.
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Source: bctv