BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (WALB) - An emergency closure order was issued Friday for Little Blessings Child Care in Bainbridge following an alleged child abuse report.

According to the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), On Friday, August 22, 2025, DECAL issued an intended order of emergency closure for Little Blessings Childcare. The business is located at 205 Independent Street in Bainbridge, Georgia, 39819. This comes after the arrest of Yvette Thurston, 54, who was a teacher during the time, was accused of abusing a child earlier this month. Thurston was taken into custody and is facing charges of first-degree aggravated battery and three counts of first-degree child abuse.

Little Blessings has 48 hours in which to appeal this decision before an administrative law judge with the Office of State Administrative Hearings (OSAH), but if it is not appealed, the center will close. If that happens, DECAL would have a maximum of 21 days in which to continue its investigation.

Read the entire decision below:

Right now, DECAL is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this situation, and they remain dedicated to working closely with law enforcement and all relevant parties to ensure a comprehensive and impartial review of all facts.

DECAL says that they understand that this situation may cause significant concern and disruption for families affected by this closure. They are committed to supporting families in finding safe and nurturing child care arrangements.

DECAL offers a free service to assist parents in identifying quality child care that best meets their needs. Families can access those resources by visiting www.qualityrated.org or by calling the Quality Rated Family Support Call Center toll-free at 1-877-ALL GA KIDS.

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