Families in East Jefferson County now have a new option for early childhood education with the opening of the Olympic Peninsula YMCA’s Early Learning Center at the 7th Haven Apartment Complex.
Located at 1351 7th Street, Suite Y (entrance on the Hendricks Street side of the building) and open to all families – not just residents of the complex – the center is launching a preschool summer camp for children aged three to five years on June 30, with both morning and afternoon programs throughout the summer.
Located just a few blocks from Jefferson Healthcare, the center offers both convenience and peace of mind for parents seeking safe, nurturing care for their preschoolers. This summer’s program features a theme-based curriculum, introducing new story models and hands-on activities each week. From science experiments and outdoor exploration to creative crafts and collaborative play, the program blends fun and early learning while encouraging social development – Registration for Summer Camp is available by week.
YMCA’s new Early Learning Center at the 7th Haven Apartment Complex is launching a preschool summer camp for children aged three to five years on June 30. Photos courtesy of the the Olympic Peninsula YMCA.
The Early Learning Center is part of a larger community vision. The YMCA partnered with OlyCAP, the building’s developer, to make this new space a reality.
“Two of the greatest needs identified in Jefferson County have been the development of affordable housing and an increase in affordable child care options. Our partnership with OlyCAP provides community residents with both, in one convenient location.” says Jodi Minker-James, Olympic Peninsula YMCA Marketing and Communications Manager.
Starting in September, the center will transition to a licensed child care facility, offering year-round, full-day care for children 30 months to five years old. The YMCA will accept subsidies from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families making quality care more accessible for families in need of support. For those that don’t qualify for DCYF subsidies, the Y has a plan in place for them too.
“At the Y, everyone belongs. We offer financial support for membership and programs so that no one is turned away due to inability to pay,” Minker-James says.
Breakfast and lunch are also included, supporting a full day of growth and engagement. Families are accepted into the program on a first-come-first serve basis. As this program is helping close a significant gap in the childcare needs of the community, it is expected to fill fast. However, the Y will be developing a waitlist. Minker-James recommends that families register right away.
“This center is about more than child care – it’s about supporting working families, building community and creating opportunities for every child to thrive,” says Shawnacy Ramos, Early Learning Director.
The summer program features a theme-based curriculum, introducing new story models and hands-on activities each week. Photos courtesy of the the Olympic Peninsula YMCA.
The new Early Learning Center is also part of the YMCA’s broader commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
In addition to this new center, the YMCA of Jefferson County offers a monthly membership for their other other programs including the Mountain View Pool, after school programs, group exercise classes, gymnasium and pickleball; plus other free resources designed to help the whole family succeed, at their branch location, 1919 Blaine Street, in Port Townsend.
To learn more about the preschool summer camp or register for fall licensed child care, visit olympicpeninsulaymca.org/blog.
To learn about becoming a Y member and other programs offered by the YMCA of Jefferson County, visit olympicpeninsulaymca.org.
