After the operator of Michael’s Energy Factory filed for bankruptcy, the Greater Bergen Community Action and the New Jersey Community Development Corporation partnered to save the preschool attended by 250 children.
The Greater Bergen Community Action, known for operating the city’s Head Start Program, will continue the state-mandated “Abbott” program at Michael’s Energy Factory. It will also blend the program with the federally-funded Head Start Program, said the nonprofit in late April.
“As an organization committed to providing thousands of young children with the head start they deserve, we could not be happier to serve the children of Michael’s Energy Factory and their families,” Robert Halsch, Jr., President/CEO of GBCA, said.
Halsch’s nonprofit already serves 700 children through its Head Start Program. It has entered into a lease with the New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) for the 25,000 sq ft building that was home to Michael’s Energy Factory at 101 Oliver Street.
NJCDC recently purchased the building. It contains 17 classrooms including 4 dedicated to toddlers and voucher recipients, according to the Greater Bergen Community Action (GBCA). Both nonprofits plan to upgrade the facility to meet the standard of a Head Start building.
“Two great organizations came together to make sure the children of Paterson- our children- are receiving a strong start to their education. Together, we look to remove all obstacles to their education,” CEO of NJCDC Bob Guarasci said.
The Paterson Public Schools facilitated the partnership between the two nonprofit organizations, according to a press release issued in late April.
Michael’s Energy Factory filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in mid-2014, according to court records.
Jay Rahman contributed to this report.