Social Issues

Rep. John Lawrence Explores Jennersville YMCA: Championing Accessible Childcare in Our Community

- by MyChesCo
Representative John Lawrence meets studentsRepresentative John Lawrence meets students and participates in a STEM building activity at the Jennersville YMCA Childcare and Early Learning Center. /Submitted Image

WEST GROVE, PA — As the back-to-school season is upon us, Representative John Lawrence (R-London Grove) recently met with YMCA leaders to discuss the vital role that Early Childhood Education Centers play in the community. As the largest provider of licensed, high-quality, affordable childcare in Chester County, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) is committed to making childcare accessible to local families.

Lacking Access to Childcare

“Unfortunately, many Chester County parents are unable to work and raise a family in our community because they lack access to safe and affordable childcare,” comments Bertram L. Lawson II, President & CEO of YGBW. “Our preschool and early learning classrooms are filled with waitlists at all eight of our locations.”

Based on 2023 enrollment data, YGBW would need to increase the capacity of their Childcare and Early Learning Centers by nearly 25% to meet demand. Renovations are underway at the Jennersville YMCA to add an additional classroom which will increase Jennersville’s capacity by 40%.

Making Childcare Affordable and Accessible

“The Jennersville YMCA meets many critical needs in our area, including providing quality, affordable childcare,” said Lawrence. “The Y helps build strong families, which in turn leads to a stronger community.”

According to Start Strong PA, families, employers, and taxpayers lose an average of $6.65 billion in lost wages when working families don’t have access to reliable childcare.

To help make childcare more affordable, YGBW offers financial assistance to families that qualify, and the Jennersville YMCA participates in Pre-K Counts, a statewide program that provides no cost pre-kindergarten education for eligible children. More than 25% of families enrolled in Childcare and Early Learning at YGBW receive financial assistance.

To learn more about Childcare and Early Learning Centers at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine:  https://ymcagbw.org/ymca-academy.

Representative John Lawrence meets with leaders, educators and students
Representative John Lawrence meets with leaders, educators and students from the Jennersville YMCA Childcare and Early Learning Center. Back row from left to right: Melody Taylor, Jennersville YMCA Childcare & Early Learning Director; Andy Hockenbrock, Jennersville YMCA Executive Director; Representative John Lawrence; and Bertram L. Lawson II, President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. /Submitted Image

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