Dovid and Sarah Lehman* eagerly anticipated their move to Brighton’s Jewish Community. Dovid was embarking on his Ph.D. studies, and Sarah was gearing up for a new full-time job as a speech therapist. Facing the reality of juggling student debt and high living costs on a single income, they recognized that securing full-time, affordable childcare would be paramount. Unfortunately, they discovered what many Jewish parents in Brighton were grappling with—a severe shortage of daycare options for their infant and toddler.
The inadequacy of early childcare had long posed a significant obstacle for numerous families within Boston’s Jewish community. It influences decisions about the number of hours parents can work and, for many, their capacity to meet essential expenses. A concerned mother articulated her dilemma, stating, “I’m working just to cover my childcare costs. Financially, it just doesn’t make sense.”
Rabbi Binyomin Mermelstein, TA’s Executive Director, keenly understood the gravity of this issue. It directly affected the ability of many school staff members to work and added a financial strain on TA families, over 50% of whom were already receiving financial aid. A parent expressed the predicament, confessing, “I’d love to pay full tuition, but I have to manage gas, food, and rent.”
Venturing into the daycare sector had never seemed a feasible option for Torah Academy due to the prohibitive startup costs and an unsustainable financial model. However, the landscape was changing. Lack of quality child care was emerging as a statewide issue, prompting Governor Maura Healey to prioritize funding for early education and childcare accessibility in Massachusetts.
Recognizing the opportunity to access state funds, Rabbi Mermelstein propelled TA into action to address this crisis within the Jewish community. His mission became the establishment of an Early Education Center (EEC). Rabbi Mermelstein is committed to turning this vision into a reality with determination, Divine assistance, and support from generous donors.
TA applied for state grants and is encouraging families to apply for tuition vouchers. Fundraising is underway to cover the significant start-up costs. One major milestone has been the recent purchase of a property in Brighton to house its EEC. Renovations have begun, and naming opportunities are available.
The program quickly filled with an initial enrollment of 20 children and is moving forward to open the new EEC this fall. Plans to expand to additional classes are already in the works to meet the even higher demand for this program.
For Jewish parents seeking exceptional childcare, entrusting their youngest children to Torah Academy is a dream come true. This initiative empowers parents to fully re-enter the workforce, fostering greater economic stability for their families and, consequently, the community. TA confidently embarks on this new educational chapter, eagerly anticipating the opportunities it brings.
*names have been changed