The Kennebunk Savings Bank Foundation is supporting a new childcare expansion project at the Sanford-Springvale YMCA. The nonprofit is expanding their full-day childcare program to provide for children ages 6 weeks to 36 months.
“The YMCA has been a leader in the Sanford area since 1941, and as a community bank, we often look to them to help us understand the changing needs in our community,” said Lex Meagher, the Bank’s President. “As a parent of young children—leading a company with a lot of other parents of young children—this particular need is abundantly clear.” The Kennebunk Savings Bank Foundation has awarded the YMCA a $10,000 grant.
The Sanford-Springvale YMCA currently provides full-day childcare for children ages 6 months to 5 years. The expansion will allow families to have a consistent provider until their children reach kindergarten. “We believe that a quality early learning experience will set the stage for school success,” said Andy Orazio, Executive Director. “We work every day to help students develop a love for learning and an inquisitive nature.”
“The YMCA’s core values resonate with me,” said Jason Errington, Branch Manager at the Bank’s Sanford location. “Caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. We run our business that way, and we love that the YMCA’s childcare programs emphasize those values daily.” Steve Oertel, VP, Commercial Relationship Manager, adds, “They also have very strong partnerships with other local organizations—Kids Free to Grow, University of Maine, and the Sanford School District – when young students need early intervention to be ready for school, they help make that happen. It’s a huge benefit for our community.”
