Metropolitan's Big Day for PIC

The Parent-Infant Center recently received a generous and very heartfelt gift from our friends at the Metropolitan Bakery & Cafe. More than a donation of dollars, this gift was a special gesture made in memory of PIC's former Executive Director, Cindy Roberts.

 

As University City's Metropolitan prepared to celebrate its 12th year in business, owner Jim Lily contacted PIC. In an email to PIC Executive Director Debbie Green, he explained his longtime relationship with PIC and friendship with former Executive Director Cindy Roberts who passed away in February.

 

In his email, Lily wrote, "PIC holds a very special place in my heart, as it does with so many in Spruce Hill. My daughter was born and raised across the street from Cindy Roberts. Now almost 29, she was an early participant in the after school program when Marni Sweet was Director, and I treasured what PIC brought to me and all the families around me." 

 

He spoke of Cindy Roberts as a friend, neighbor and amazing example of giving back to those around her, especially those in need. He wanted to honor her memory by donating a portion of sales on the store's anniversary to PIC.

 

On April 26, Metropolitan's 12th anniversary, sales were discounted 12% all day. Lily doubled the total dollar amount of those discounts and presented Debbie Green with a $600 gift to the Cindy Fund at PIC.

 

According to Lily's email, "PIC is an incredible asset to all of us in West Philly and we're proud to contribute our support and to honor Cindy's vision and dedication."

 

Cindy Roberts believed in making quality child care available to every family, regardless of income. Upon her death, Cindy's family asked PIC to establish a fund dedicated to support pre-K children on subsidy at PIC as a way to honor her strong committment to increasing access to quality preschool.

 

Gifts to the Cindy Fund are a tremendous tribute to a woman passionate about children and families. It is also a strong show of support for giving all children equal access to high quality early learning experiences. 

 

For more information about PIC and supporting the Cindy Fund, contact Development Manager Karen Stachelek at kstachelek@parentinfantcenter.org.