Need: Studies have consistently shown that a lack of affordable, easily assessable childcare is a top issue for lower income families in the greater Bridgeport area. Without childcare, many of these families cannot hold a job that will allow them to support themselves.

Community Challenge: How do we provide safe, affordable childcare for children of low income families in Bridgeport?

Answer: Build a childcare facility on land acquired in the South End of Bridgeport where the need is particularly great.

How?: In conjunction with the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA (CCCYMCA), the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County will build an 11,000 square foot non-profit childcare facility in the South End of Bridgeport that will serve low income families. By providing quality, easily accessible childcare and an early childhood education, we will positively impact the lives of over 100 needy children a year and allow parents to obtain and retain gainful employment.

Qualifications: The CCCYMCA currently operates licensed childcare programs at 32 Connecticut locations. These programs serve over 1,750 children each day. Since 1920, the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County has provided leadership and dedicated volunteers for the development of what are now the Ahlbin Rehabilitation Center, the Discovery Museum, the Beardsley Zoo, and the Bridgeport School Volunteer Association. This partnership brings together two long standing community organizations that will provide the necessary leadership, expertise, and volunteers to see this project through to completion.

Facts:

• Federal “Welfare to Work” Act requires welfare recipients to obtain employment as a condition of receiving public assistance or face financial repercussions
• Currently, it costs a parent over $10,000 a year for childcare and is projected to be more each year.
• Today, there is a waiting list of 300-400 children for the Bridgeport School Readiness Program
• Studies show that participation in early childhood education programs provides the skills and enrichment that can increase a child’s chance for success

How Can You Help?:

• Contribute to the JLEFC Bridgeport Childcare Project Capital Campaign
• Help the Capital Campaign by Spreading the Word