UNITED WAY MAY SUPPORT EASTER SEALS' REPLACEMENT

If a new day care center were to open that offered services to special-needs children in Southeast Missouri, it could receive funding through the Area Wide United Way.

Since the Easter Seals Childhood Center in Cape Girardeau is closing, funding for that agency will cease. But if another agency would step in to provide a day care service for special needs children, it could be funded with the remaining $22,500 collected by the Area Wide United Way, said Nancy Jernigan, executive director. Much of that funding was specifically designated for Easter Seals programs.

However, there will likely be a gap in day care services for parents whose children currently attend the Easter Seals center. The center, along Broadway, will close in 10 days.

Dozens of parents gathered Wednesday evening to learn about their options and alternative day care programs available.

Dan and Mitzie Seger are hoping to find an alternative, which would likely be operating a not-for-profit center without the Easter Seals affiliation, but with the same staff and teachers.

"Ideally we are trying to find a new building and just pick up and move," Mitzie Seger said. "It's going to take people and support."