UPDATE: A Minneapolis day care, the Quality “Learing” Center, is under intense scrutiny following a viral video that accuses it of participating in a fraudulent scheme. The urgent allegations come amid a broader investigation into Minnesota’s taxpayer-funded child care programs, which may involve up to $9 billion in fraudulent claims.
On December 30, 2025, a surge of activity was reported at the day care, starkly contrasting with its usual quiet demeanor. Cars filled the parking lot as children were seen entering and exiting, raising eyebrows among local residents who described the scene as “highly unusual.” One nearby resident remarked, “We’ve never seen kids go in there until today. That parking lot is empty all the time.”
The sudden influx of children coincided with the release of a video by YouTuber Nick Shirley, who claimed the facility was inactive while collecting public funds. In his video, Shirley pointed out, “You do realize there’s supposed to be 99 children here in this building, and there’s no one here?” This footage, posted on social media, has sparked widespread attention and criticism.
As tensions flared, Ibrahim Ali, the center’s manager and son of the owners, defended the facility, stating that Shirley arrived before the center opened. “Do you go to a coffee shop at 11 p.m. and say, ‘Hey, they’re not working?’” Ali insisted. He acknowledged the viral misspelling on the center’s sign, attributing it to a graphic designer’s error and promised it would be corrected.
While Ali claimed about 16 children were present during the afternoon, reporters noted the atmosphere was charged. A woman opening the facility at 2 p.m. dismissed the fraud allegations, stating, “We don’t have fraud. That’s a lie,” before announcing she would consult her lawyer.
The investigation into the Quality “Learing” Center is part of a sweeping probe into Minnesota’s child care sector, where authorities suspect fraud may be rampant. Reports indicate that federal agents, including ICE, are involved in examining facilities like the ABC Learning Center, where records of attendance were requested. Ahmed Hasan, director of ABC Learning Center, expressed concern over the atmosphere of fear within the community, asserting, “They come with eight people. Five of them had masks. We thought they were ICE.”
The allegations surrounding these day care centers have raised significant alarm, especially among the Somali community, who feel targeted by these investigations. Hasan labeled the scrutiny as “a political game,” suggesting there is a concerted effort to undermine Somali-run businesses.
As the story develops, authorities are urging anyone with information related to fraudulent activities in child care programs to come forward. The focus on these centers highlights a critical issue regarding the potential misuse of taxpayer dollars, sparking widespread public outrage and concerns regarding transparency and accountability within the system.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
