OLD LYME – The Old Lyme Children’s Learning Center has announced the return of the Homes for the Holidays Tour – and they’re looking for homeowners on or near Lyme Street who are willing to open their beautifully decorated, holiday-themed homes to visitors.
The popular fundraiser will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 from mid-morning through early afternoon.
OLCLC Board of Directors President Kristen St. Germain in an email said the center has already secured some homes and is hoping to add more.
“Whether you showcase a few rooms or the whole house, your participation helps bring joy to visitors and raises critical funds to support high-quality childcare for working families in our area,” she said. “This festive event not only celebrates the spirit of the season but also highlights the architecture and warmth of our beautiful community.”
Interested homeowners are asked to email St. Germain at bod.olclc@gmail.com or board member Marie Ryan at mcargr@aol.com.
OLCLC has been providing childcare on Lyme Street for almost 40 years. But a severe leak in 2023 forced the center to close its doors for a complete renovation of the historic home. It reopened last October.
St. Germain in a separate letter to area homeowners described the closure as a logistical and financial challenge at a time when the center was emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic to find an altered childcare landscape.
“The need for quality childcare in Connecticut has never been greater,” she said. “Since the pandemic, our state has faced a critical shortage of childcare options, making it even more difficult for working families to balance their careers and their children’s care. OLCLC is committed to being part of the solution, but we need the community’s help to get back on our feet.”
The center will also host a holiday boutique inside the Old Lyme Town Hall as part of the tour.