Wellspring Family Services Announces Closure of Early Learning Center Due to State Funding Cuts
Seattle, WA — Wellspring Family Services announced on September 22, 2025, that it will be closing its Early Learning Center (ELC) as of October 31st due to significant reductions in state funding for early childhood education programs.
For nearly 40 years, Wellspring’s Early Learning Center has been a trusted place where children from families experiencing homelessness or living with low incomes received high-quality, trauma-informed care. This decision reflects the broader reality facing early learning providers: rising costs and insufficient funding have made it increasingly difficult to sustain affordable, high-quality childcare. Wellspring is not alone in this challenge — but we remain determined to put families first.
“This is a heartbreaking decision,” said Julie Morris, Interim Executive Director of Wellspring Family Services. “Our Early Learning Center has been a lifeline for families navigating incredible challenges. But the loss of more than $500,000 in state funding, combined with the already fragile economics of high-quality early learning, leaves us without the means to continue operating the program at the level of quality and care our families deserve.”
Wellspring is working with partner organizations – including Akin, Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA), and Seed of Life – to ensure every child has a new placement and every family receives support in making the transition. Additionally, Wellspring is committed to helping its staff move forward with resources and connections that honor both their service here and their future goals.
While the Early Learning Center is closing, Wellspring remains deeply committed to its mission of keeping families housed. The organization will continue to provide housing services, family stabilization programs, and essential needs throughout the region.
“We are grateful to our staff, families, and community partners who have supported the ELC over the years,” said Morris. “We remain focused on building a future where every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.”
Additional information can be found in the FAQs.
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About Wellspring Family Services
Wellspring Family Services (Wellspring) is a nonprofit, multi-service agency focused on preventing and ending homelessness for families. Wellspring provides housing stability services, affordable housing resident support services, and a free family store. Knowledgeable and caring staff make it easy for families find help amidst a confusing maze of disconnected community resources. Wellspring supports children and families primarily in the Greater Puget Sound region. Learn more at wellspringfs.org.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Julie Morris
Interim Executive Director
Wellspring Family Services
Email: jmorris@wellspringfs.org
Phone: (206) 787-8003