In the wake of the devastating Eaton Canyon fires, the YMCA of the Foothills is stepping up to support affected families and educators with a no-cost emergency childcare program.
Open to La Cañada Unified School District teachers, staff and families, as well as surrounding communities like Altadena, the program aims to provide relief during this challenging time.
The YMCA planned to host 75 students from all three LCUSD elementary schools between Jan. 13-17. Operating Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the program offers a variety of enrichment activities, including STEM workshops, fitness sessions, arts and crafts, and an e-sports lab. Special on-site events such as puppy playdates, magic shows, and collaborative art projects add a touch of joy to the children’s experience.
This initiative comes at a time when 23 LCUSD teachers and staff, including six YMCA members, have been displaced or lost their homes. In Altadena alone, 196 YMCA members face similar hardships, with two staff members losing their homes and three others displaced.
“For the past 66 years, the YMCA of the Foothills and the La Cañada Unified School District have shared a special partnership of mutual aid and program support in times of great need,” said Vince Iuculano, Chief Executive Officer. “Our focus was to provide meaningful support, in real time, to the teachers, staff, and parents of the district by providing free childcare to students in need.”
For the full length article, visit https://outlooknewspapers.com/lacanadaoutlook/news/ymca-of-the-foothills-opens-doors-to-fire-victims/article_d7168c7e-d374-11ef-9e05-972779b5bbf4.html