On October 1, 1985, a small structure opened its doors in Approval, driven by the passion of a young woman: Cherryl Freedom, who, since childhood, dreamed of taking care of toddlers. With the unwavering support of her family, the Dafy Swing nursery was born.
His mother prepared the meals, his father took care of the maintenance, his brother Johnny Freedom and his wife Aline roamed the streets distributing leaflets. Twelve children were welcomed in the first year, supervised by two employees: the founder and Francilène Paines, the structure's first employee.
A united and loyal team
The team quickly grew. In 1986, Viviane Vermot de Boisrolin, affectionately known as Tata Vivi, still in office today and praised for her dedication and loyalty.
From family to association
In 1992, Dafy Swing took a decisive step by becoming the first associative nursery approved by Maternal and Child Protection (SMEs) in Saint Martin, with the support of the CAF and, at the time, the municipality of Saint-Martin. This official recognition put an end to its strictly family-run operation and allowed the reception of children from the age of three months. The team became more professional with the hiring of a nurse, a childcare worker and a qualified cook.
The premises have evolved over the years: a play area and adapted toilets, a building dedicated to babies in 2009, then, after the passage of Hurricane Irma, major renovations in 2021 with the support of the CAF.
An early childhood institution
Today, the nursery has a capacity of 46 children and employs 17 employeesIt works in close collaboration with the PMI, the CAF and the Community, which support its operation.
In 40 years, Dafy Swing has welcomed two generations of Saint-Martin children : some former residents now enroll their own children there. The nursery is also renowned for its social diversity, a true reflection of the diversity of the island, where families of all origins and backgrounds meet.
A birthday full of gratitude
On the occasion of this 40th anniversary, the founder and her team wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to the families, partner institutions, and many employees who contributed to this wonderful adventure. A special thought goes to Cherryl Freedom's mother, "Mamie," a true pillar and "matron" of the nursery's history, who is still present today.
Forty years of commitment
In four decades, Dafy Swing has established itself as a essential institution for Saint-Martin families. A symbol of perseverance, solidarity, and dedication, the nursery embodies forty years of care, education, and support for early childhood.
See also: https://www.faxinfo.fr/dafy-swing-la-plus-ancienne-creche-a-saint-martin-fete-noel-avec-les-enfants/
https://faxinfo.fr/en/vie-locale-la-creche-associative-dafy-swing-fete-ses-40-ans-au-service-des-familles-saint-martinoises/
