LEXINGTON, Ohio — Grace Brethren Church in Lexington celebrated the addition of a YMCA Preschool and Early Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday.
The Mansfield Area Y previously provided the Lexington community with a preschool and early learning center in the Geyer’s plaza, next to the Lexington Academy of Dance.
“At this church we just had an opportunity to grow. We enroll more kids in Lexington, we are the only state-funded, licensed child-care center in Lexington. So we’re able to serve more in the center,” said Mansfield Area Y President and CEO Cristen Gilbert.
Gilbert explained that the daycare center is state-funded, which allows for the Mansfield Area Y to assist families that cannot afford full tuition for other privately owned childcare facilities.
The daycare center, located in Grace Brethren Church’s basement, services children from six weeks to 12 years old. It is licensed for 74 children within that age range and currently employs at least 10 childcare providers.
The Preschool and Early Learning Center includes a comprehensive preschool and weekly swim lessons for children ages three to five. All children enrolled will receive three meals daily, free vision and hearing screenings, skills assessments, field trips and developmentally appropriate activities, according to the Mansfield Area Y.
Gilbert said the church’s daycare center is good for parents who work early because it provides a bus drop-off and pick-up. Daycare centers also are great for socialization in children, said Gilbert.
“It gives kids an opportunity to learn with others before going to kindergarten,” said Gilbert.
Present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Richland Area Chamber of Commerce President Jodi Perry and member Doc Stumbo, Lexington Mayor Eugene Parkinson, daycare teachers, church staff and Grace Brethren Church Pastor Matthew Rupple.
“We love the idea of helping the community get involved with loving more people. So this is a great opportunity to love God and people. We’re excited for this partnership,” said Rupple.
For more information on enrolling into the daycare center and pricing, contact Vicki Collins at 419-884-2474 or visit the Mansfield Area Y’s website. The YMCA offers daycare services at three additional locations in the county.
