INSPIRATION
While these programs put in place by CMEE are crucial and relevant , the social connections created at the Museum impact the community the most . These connections provide families with the community , support , and hope for which they long .
“ For Nancy T ., a single mother who recently lost her job as a housecleaner , CMEE ’ s COVID response is providing a lifeline . Her two sons , ages 10 and 3 , have participated in the Museum ’ s programming since they were born . After picking up their food at the Museum last week , Nancy ’ s younger son called Leah Oppenheimer , the Museum ’ s Director of Community Outreach . While the purpose of the call was to say thank you , he really wanted to describe how much he missed seeing her at the Children ’ s Museum ,” explains Long .
Since August 3 , CMEE has reopened to the public at 20 % capacity . Visitors receive their own set of exhibit objects , and all toys and props are sanitized after use . The Museum ’ s cleaning protocols extend well beyond what the CDC recommends .
Even through the challenges of the pandemic , the Children ’ s Museum of the East End has remained devoted
In response to the unprecedented economic hardship faced by local families during the COVID-19 pandemic , CMEE launched several emergency initiatives to help families cope with the crisis including a weekly food pantry .
to their original mission of cultivating and fostering creativity , imagination , and a sense of community for children through playful learning . The Museum continues to create a productive and welcoming environment for families and children in need . Back in 1997 , those eight moms could not have imagined what a significant and positive impact their connection to each other and to this vision would have on the community in the East End of Long Island . n
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