Bloomsburg YMCA Secures .3 Million in Grants for Child Care Expansion
BLOOMSBURG, Pa. — In a significant development for local families, the Bloomsburg YMCA has announced the acquisition of .3 million in state and federal grants aimed at bolstering its child care program. Wayne Stump, the CEO of the Bloomsburg YMCA, confirmed that these funds will be instrumental in the expansion of the YMCA’s child care offerings and the development of a community resource hub.
“This funding represents a pivotal step toward achieving our goal of expanding our child care services, addressing the growing demand we’ve identified within the community,” Stump remarked. He elaborated that the total project cost is projected to reach approximately million, suggesting that additional fundraising efforts will be necessary to complement the grant funding.
Currently, the YMCA operates its Youth Development Center from a separate facility on its grounds, offering school-age care for children aged 6 to 12, as well as a small program catering to preschoolers aged 2 to 5. Upon completion of the expansion, the YMCA plans to significantly increase its capacity from 54 to over 100 children, welcoming infants and kids up to school age.
The need for expanded child care services was highlighted during a community needs assessment conducted over two years ago. Stump emphasized that many local families continue to struggle to find adequate child care options, underscoring the YMCA’s commitment to fill this gap. “We aim to provide accessible and quality child care, meeting the needs of working families in our community,” he stated.
Although the construction phase of the project is anticipated to commence in 2027, Stump noted that preliminary architectural and engineering work is already underway. “While we won’t break ground until 2027, we will ensure that essential design and planning are completed by the end of 2026,” he mentioned, indicating that meticulous preparation is vital for a project of this scale.
The YMCA’s initiative has garnered support from state and federal representatives, recognizing the importance of expanding child care facilities to alleviate the financial burdens on families. Stump stated, “It is crucial that we approach this project innovatively. We need to secure adequate funding without placing excessive financial demands on the community.”
As the YMCA moves forward, Stump outlined that the project’s trajectory will hinge on ongoing fundraising efforts, with clearer prospects for advancement expected by mid-2026. The Bloomsburg YMCA’s ambitious expansion plans signal a proactive approach to community support, aiming to enhance the quality of life for families while strengthening its role as a vital community resource.
In conclusion, as demand for child care continues to grow, the Bloomsburg YMCA is positioning itself to play a crucial role in meeting these needs, ensuring that families have access to essential services that support their work-life balance.
