Baby Einstein Child Development Center Announces New Home in Anacostia

Press Release

Washington, DC — Nine months after a catastrophic explosion next door, Baby Einstein Child Development Center has quite literally risen from the ashes to establish a new haven in Ward 8, marking a powerful and emotional comeback for the Anacostia community. Baby Einstein will open and establish its new home at 1239 Marion Barry Avenue SE. This milestone was made possible through a grant from the District’s Commercial Property Acquisition Fund (CPAF), which provides eligible businesses with down payment assistance for the acquisition of commercial property in the District. CPAF is managed by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development and is administered through City First Enterprises (CFE).

“By working together, we are turning what was a terrible accident into a bright future, and we’re excited to support Baby Einstein Child Development Center as they stay in Anacostia serving DC families,” said Deputy Mayor Albert. “Mayor Bowser’s investments are helping local businesses purchase their buildings and be part of thriving neighborhoods. We are proud Baby Einstein will now be in a building they own and can call home for years to come.”

“It’s not every day that we experience inspirational, redemptive stories of this level,” said Bibiana Stevens, Director of Grant Programs with City First Enterprises. “The Baby Einstein story is nothing short of a miracle. No children or staff were harmed, and the way the community united behind the center is an impressive reflection of what the Center means to the neighborhood.”

Founded by DC native Regina Snead, the Center has been a bedrock for the Anacostia community for over a decade, providing affordable, high-quality daycare with a focus on supporting low-income families and local students. Earlier this year, Baby Einstein faced unimaginable challenges after a major explosion in the neighboring store consequently destroyed the Center. Yet the community rallied, with significant funding efforts to secure critical items for the students while they were displaced in a temporary location. Despite having to reduce their capacity in the interim, Baby Einstein remained steadfast in its commitment to Anacostia. “Remaining in Anacostia was paramount to us,” said Regina Snead. “Our operation enriches the fabric of the environment our children and their families live in. These families rely on us for stability.”

The purchase of this new location is a victory for Baby Einstein and a win for the community. With the ongoing childcare shortage, it’s essential to support businesses like Baby Einstein that provide much-needed services for families. Quality childcare is crucial for the development of children and the well-being of parents, making this expansion a significant step towards addressing the community’s needs. The new facility will allow Baby Einstein to double its capacity and provide enhanced educational offerings. CFE’s facilitation of the CPAF grant will help the Center integrate advanced STEM and creative arts programming into its curriculum, equipping children with the critical-thinking skills necessary for academic and career success in today’s technology-driven world.

Applications for the Commercial Property Acquisition Fund will be opening soon.
To learn more, visit our site.

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About City First Enterprises

City First Enterprises is a certified CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution) specializing in flexible lending for affordable housing, commercial real estate, small businesses, non-profits, and clean energy projects. With a mission to create equitable financial solutions to support people and communities in achieving their economic aspirations, we envision a future where all people and communities transform their futures through equitable access to capital.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2025

CONTACT:
Jasmine Williams
Communications and Development Manager
City First Enterprises
jasmine@cfenterprises.org
202-536-5838