The Sanford-Springvale YMCA held its ribbon-cutting and open house on Tuesday, July 23rd, for its newly expanded childcare facility with Governor Janet Mills in attendance.
The YMCA is partnering with the Sanford School Department to offer a free full-day Pre-K program for 16 students for the 2024-2025 school year. The YMCA’s newly constructed classrooms will also accommodate 30 additional children in its childcare program.
The YMCA expansion is part of the Mills Administration's state-wide effort to expand childcare options. The Sanford School Department was awarded a Pre-K Expansion grant.
YMCA Chief Volunteer Officer Kimberly Stewart welcomed Governor Mills, along with Health and Human Services Commissioner Sarah Gagné-Holmes and Director of Child and Family Services Bobbi Johnson, who were in attendance to celebrate this milestone, then delivered opening remarks.
YMCA Chief Executive Officer Andy Orazio followed and thanked donors, community members, and Governor Mills for making childcare a top priority.
"As one of the largest providers of childcare and camp in York County, we continue to seek ways to meet the growing needs for quality childcare," Orazio said. "The funds received from the childcare expansion grant allowed us to leverage those dollars to raise additional funds from our local stakeholders to make this vision possible."
While the funding has been crucial for expansion, the success of such initiatives also relies on community partnerships and collaborative efforts. Sanford School Department Superintendent Matt Nelson emphasized this point, highlighting the significance of working together to support youth development.
"What a great day for Sanford. What a great day for the YMCA. The work that we do, educating our youth and impacting our youth, is more important than ever," Nelson said. "It's hard work, it's challenging work, but I'm so proud to be the Superintendent in Sanford. Because one of the things that helps that hard work gets done is the different partnerships we have here."
Governor Mills then made remarks before the official ribbon-cutting. She has allocated money from federal sources, including her Jobs Plan, to enhance childcare services in Maine. These state and federal funds have established ongoing support for childcare employees. Additionally, these improvements in childcare support the broader workforce by allowing parents to work, knowing their children have access to quality care.
"High-quality early childhood programs prepare kids for success and give parents important peace of mind knowing that their children are learning in a safe environment," Mills said. “Investments from my Jobs Plan are creating more opportunities for children and families – in Sanford, Springvale, and across the state – to benefit from these programs. My Administration will continue to expand to access these vital programs.”
Attendees and community members toured the new classrooms following the ceremony.
