CORTLAND, NY (607NewsNow) — The Cortland County Family YMCA has received an anonymous grant that will directly support scholarships and program access for families enrolling in before and after school care, summer day camp, and School’s Out full-day programs.

Halfway through its first year as a New York State Office of Children and Family Services licensed Before and After School School Age Child Care (SACC) program, which also carries over into the summer months, the grant allows the Cortland YMCA to offer continuity of care.

Busses directly to the YMCA from Parker, Barry, Smith, and Randall schools are offered by the Cortland Enlarged City School District for both before and after school care. The program is also open on days when there is no school from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“This grant opportunity comes at a critical time,” said Gina Cusano-McLaughlin, Cortland County Family YMCA Branch Manager. “Cortland County is known as a childcare desert, and having additional support to offer more financial assistance to our families is crucial. Last year, we provided over $12,000 in summer camp scholarships alone, and this funding allows us to cast a wider net, not only for summer camp, but for year-round childcare.”

“Affordable childcare is fundamentally a workforce issue,” said Gunnar Madison, Regional Executive Director of the Cortland County Family YMCA and the YMCA of Ithaca & Tompkins County. “When families have reliable, high-quality care they can afford, parents are better able to participate fully in the workforce, strengthen household stability, and contribute to our local economy. This grant helps make that possible for more families in Cortland County.”

The Cortland County Family YMCA still has spots available in its before and after school program and is currently registering for full-day care, including upcoming school breaks.

Summer Camp registration opened February 1st. Those interested in applying for a scholarship should complete a Membership for All application on the Cortland YMCA website or contact Carlotta Case, Membership Service Coordinator, at memberships@cortlandymca.org. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.