Parents in North Tonawanda are seeking justice after their children were allegedly abused at Sweet Angels Daycare on Erie Avenue. The incident has sparked outrage in the community as a 20-year-old employee of the daycare, Savanna Huntington, the daughter of owner Kelly Doel, was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. The arrest comes after a criminal investigation by the North Tonawanda police.
Jasmine Atlikhani, a concerned parent whose son attended Sweet Angels, expressed her shock and disbelief upon receiving a letter from Child Protective Services (CPS). She knew something had happened to her 5-year-old son, Elijah, and was devastated by the news. The Office of Children and Family Services also issued a series of violations to the facility, including the use of corporal punishment, which involves physical harm inflicted on a child.
Atlikhani described how her son’s behavior changed after attending Sweet Angels, and the impact it has had on their family. She never expected such a situation to occur at a daycare where she believed her child was safe and well-cared for. The closure of Sweet Angels on May 10 further added to the shock and disappointment felt by parents who trusted the daycare with their children.
This is not the first time Sweet Angels Daycare has faced scrutiny. In a previous incident in Newfane, several employees were arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child in September 2023. The repeated instances of misconduct have raised concerns among parents and highlighted the need for stricter regulations in the daycare industry.
Kathy Chenez-Stefanko, another parent affected by the situation, expressed her frustration and disbelief at the abuse her child endured. She emphasized the importance of holding accountable those responsible for endangering the welfare of innocent children. Mallory Bumpers Wojewoda echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for parents to speak up and advocate for justice on behalf of their children.
The arrest of Savanna Huntington has brought some relief to the affected families, who are hopeful that justice will be served. The upcoming court date for Kelly Doel, the daycare owner, on October 3, will be a crucial moment in the pursuit of accountability for the misconduct at Sweet Angels. Wojewoda expressed her sadness and frustration at the situation, highlighting the impact it has had on the community.
Despite the challenges faced by the families affected by the daycare abuse, there is a sense of determination to seek justice and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future. The sale of the North Tonawanda location to a different daycare facility marks a new chapter in the community’s efforts to prioritize the safety and well-being of children in daycare settings.
Impact on the Community
The allegations of abuse at Sweet Angels Daycare have had a profound impact on the North Tonawanda community. Parents who trusted the daycare with their children’s well-being are now grappling with feelings of betrayal and anger. The closure of the facility and the subsequent arrest of a daycare employee have raised concerns about the safety and oversight of daycare centers in the area.
The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about the need for stricter regulations and monitoring of daycare facilities to prevent similar cases of abuse in the future. Community members are calling for increased transparency and accountability in the daycare industry to ensure the safety of children in their care.
Seeking Justice
As the affected families continue to seek justice for the abuse suffered by their children, there is a growing sense of solidarity and determination within the community. Parents are coming together to support each other and advocate for stricter regulations to protect children in daycare settings.
The upcoming court proceedings for Kelly Doel and the ongoing investigation into Sweet Angels Daycare will be crucial in holding those responsible for endangering the welfare of children accountable. The community’s efforts to seek justice and ensure the safety of children in daycare facilities reflect a commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
In conclusion, the allegations of abuse at Sweet Angels Daycare have shaken the North Tonawanda community and underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of children in daycare settings. The pursuit of justice for the affected families and the calls for increased oversight and accountability in the daycare industry highlight the community’s commitment to protecting children from harm.