GIVE EVERY CHILD A STRONG START THIS SCHOOL YEAR.
School success begins long before the first bell rings.
Your gift helps local children access affordable early learning, safe after school care, and the school supplies they need to start the year with confidence. Together, we're removing financial barriers so every child can learn, grow, and thrive.
"I truly feel like this school was hand-picked for my son, heaven-sent. Now that he's in school, I notice that he's more polite. He knows that he has to play with others and share. He's just developing very well and I'm just noticing a lot of growth in him. Through the YMCA, I can say that my son is growing in school, and we're grateful that as a family we can grow together as well.”
-Shakira Annosier, Parent of a child in our Early Learning Center Toddler Program
THE NEED IS GROWING. SO IS OUR IMPACT.
The rising cost of childcare, school supplies, and everyday essentials continues to put pressure on local families. In Greenwich:
- 20% of public school students qualify for free or reduced-price meals.
- 51% of residents believe childcare is unaffordable or very unaffordable.
That's why the YMCA is committed to ensuring every child has access to quality childcare, educational opportunities, and the resources they need to succeed.
500,000 + projected to be awarded in childcare scholarships in 2026
50 % of childcare spots reserved for scholarship recipients
150 children will shop for new school essentials through Running Start
5 Early Learning classrooms now serving local children ages 6 months to 5 years
80+ families received child care and enrichment for their child in our After School program last year
HOW YOUR GIFT CHANGES LIVES
Give Early Learners the Best Start
The first five years shape a child's future.
Your gift helps families access high-quality early education where children build language, social, and developmental skills that prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.
This year, our Early Learning Center expanded to five classrooms, and more than $128,000 in scholarships has already helped local families access quality care.
Help Working Families Thrive After School
When the school day ends, learning shouldn't have to stop.
Our After School Enrichment Program provides homework help, healthy snacks, swimming, enrichment activities, and caring mentors in a safe environment while parents finish the workday.
Last year, more than 80 children participated, many receiving financial assistance that made the program possible.
Give a Child the Confidence to Walk Into School Proud
For many children, Running Start is the first time they've been able to choose brand-new clothes, shoes, and a backpack for school.
This year, 150 local children will receive $150 to shop one-on-one with a volunteer mentor, helping them begin the school year feeling confident, included, and excited to learn.
Sometimes confidence begins with something as simple as a new pair of shoes.
YOUR GIFT MAKES AN IMMEDIATE DIFFERENCE.
$50
Provides school supplies and classroom essentials.
$150
Sponsors one child through Running Start with brand-new clothing, shoes, and a backpack.
$300
Helps provide financial assistance for one week of after school care.
$500
Supports an Early Learning Center scholarship for a local family.
Any Amount
Helps ensure every child has access to quality childcare and educational opportunities regardless of financial circumstances.