Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church has announced it will close its parish daycare at the end of July 2025, citing financial challenges that have made continuing operations unsustainable.
The decision to close the daycare — which has served families in Owensboro since January 1986 — came after “a long period of discernment and review,” church officials said in a statement. They noted that, like many early childhood centers across the country, the daycare has struggled in the years following the pandemic.
“This period of time is one of grieving as we let go of a ministry that has impacted and enriched the lives of so many families over the past decades,” said Fr. Pat, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes. “Please pray for all those affected and for their comfort, safety, and peace in the days ahead.”
Parents of currently enrolled children have been notified directly, and church leaders said they are working to support families through the transition.
The daycare initially served toddlers and children enrolled in Lourdes’ former half-day kindergarten program before the school shifted to full-day classes. Over the years, it became a broader service to the community, operating as both a parish ministry and a child care option for local families.
“We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of all the families who have been part of this ministry over the years, and for the compassion and commitment of the staff who have served here,” the statement read.
The daycare will remain open through July 31, 2025.
