YMCA provides before- and after-school care options
Over the past five years, access to child care for Delaware families has declined across the state.
It’s evident in the lower part of Delaware, where almost 11,000 children are underserved by publicly funded programs in Sussex County, according to First State Pre-K.
The Sussex Family YMCA serves as a safe haven for families in this child care desert by offering safe and affordable before- and after-school enrichment throughout communities in Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Millsboro/Long Neck, Selbyville and Georgetown.
The State of Delaware only funds early child care and education for a small percentage of children due to limited eligibility for many lower/middle-class families. This forces many parents to put their careers on hold to provide care for their kids at home. Local economies can’t flourish if companies lose these quality workers. Parents shouldn’t have to break the bank when deciding on early-age care for their children, and kids can’t afford to miss out on paramount growth opportunities at a critical age for learning. This is also true for families needing care during out-of-school mornings and afternoon times.
The Y currently has seven before- and after-school enrichment sites in Sussex County giving families in these communities an affordable option for child care in a secure and diverse setting: Lewes Elementary, Sussex Consortium (Little Vikings), Rehoboth Elementary, Long Neck Elementary, Phillip Showell Elementary, East Millsboro Elementary and Georgetown Elementary.
The YMCA of Delaware is committed to providing children with a safe and positive experience while promoting unity and acceptance, and fostering a sense of self. Before-school care programs offer a great start to each child’s day with group games and enrichment choices. After-school care programs reinforce academics through a variety of structured activities, provide time for homework, offer a snack or small meal, and include physical activities and sports. This includes fun and engaging hands-on learning activities such as art and STEM that promote skill-building, creative exploration and academic support. The Y’s well-trained staff members strive to create an environment that supports children and their individual needs. The Y team looks to ensure every child is on a pathway to success while supporting family and economic stability.
“Not enough people know about the wide-ranging child care options we have at the Y,” said Georganne Buccine, YMCA of Delaware vice president of youth development. “We’re seeing too many children lose out on critical learning and social growth opportunities. Getting Delaware’s kids into our youth development programs help cultivate a well-rounded, confident and capable group that is set to positively contribute to and thrive in our communities.”
The YMCA before- and after-school enrichment program is open to all, and financial assistance is available. All sites are licensed by the State of Delaware and accept Purchase of Care.
