Precious Lamb Preschool: Transforming Lives, One Child at a Time

In the heart of Long Beach, a remarkable organization is making a profound difference in the lives of young children facing the devastating reality of homelessness. Precious Lamb Preschool, a nonprofit that has served over 700 children and their families since 2002, is embarking on a new era of growth and impact, determined to break the cycle of homelessness one child at a time.

Empowering the Youngest Victims of Homelessness

Addressing the Emotional Toll of Instability

Homelessness is a burden no child should bear, yet the reality is that many preschool-aged children in Long Beach are grappling with the uncertainty and instability of life without a permanent home. "Homelessness creates an unstable environment for young children, making their ability to thrive very challenging," explains Matt Cullen, board chair and president of Precious Lamb Preschool. This emotional toll can have long-lasting consequences on a child's academic performance and behavior, as they are exposed to adverse childhood experiences such as trauma, abuse, and neglect.

Expanding Services to Reach More Families in Need

Recognizing the urgent need to support these vulnerable children, Precious Lamb Preschool is undergoing a transformative expansion. The organization is moving to a new facility, just a mile from its current location, that will triple the number of children and families it serves. This expansion will also establish a new infant care center, providing essential services to children as young as 6 weeks old.

Empowering Parents, Empowering Futures

At the heart of Precious Lamb's mission is the belief that by supporting children, they can empower their families to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. "By broadening our services, we aim to provide essential resources and childcare options to more families in need," says Cheri Bazley, the organization's new executive director. "This initiative will empower parents facing homelessness to pursue employment opportunities without worrying about their children."

Partnering for Greater Impact

Precious Lamb's growth is not just about expanding its own services; it's also about forging strategic partnerships to amplify its reach and impact. The organization plans to collaborate with other local organizations, such as the Long Beach Rescue Mission and its Lydia House, to ensure that families have access to a comprehensive network of support.

Celebrating Success Stories

As Precious Lamb Preschool embarks on this new chapter, it does so with a deep sense of pride and purpose, inspired by the transformative stories of the children and families it has already served. Sharalyn Croft, the founder of Precious Lamb, shares the story of one of the school's first students, a 4-year-old girl who recently graduated from college in Colorado. This success story is a testament to the power of early intervention and the lasting impact that Precious Lamb can have on young lives.

Empowering the Next Generation

The expansion of Precious Lamb Preschool is not just about providing immediate relief to families in crisis; it's about investing in the long-term future of the community. By equipping children with the tools they need to thrive, both academically and emotionally, Precious Lamb is paving the way for a brighter tomorrow, where the cycle of homelessness and poverty is broken, and every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.