Department of Defense Supports New Child Care Centers for Military Families in Hampton Roads and DC

Expansion of Child Care Facilities for Military Families

In a move to support military families, the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) has announced the upcoming establishment of three new Child Development Centers (CDCs). This initiative is made possible through a contract with the Department of Defense (DoD). The aim is to enhance accessible child care services in the Hampton Roads and Washington D.C. areas, particularly crucial for families facing extended waitlists for care. The first of these centers is set to open in Norfolk, Virginia in May 2025, followed by a second location in Virginia Beach in Spring 2026, and a third center in D.C. scheduled to open late in 2025.

Military families have been under substantial pressure due to rising child care costs, which have surged by 22% since 2020. Many parents, especially those in the military, are confronted with the complex reality of frequent moves, deployments, and long separations, all while dealing with a serious shortage of affordable child care options. Currently, over 2,000 children in Norfolk and Washington D.C. are on waiting lists for care. These new CDCs are a vital response to help alleviate these challenges.

William French, a retired Vice Admiral and now the President and CEO of ASYMCA, stated, "Establishing these centers is a significant step towards strengthening military readiness. We are grateful to the Department of Defense for this partnership, allowing us to provide essential child care solutions for military families in the region."

The initiative is part of a broader strategy coordinated with the DoD’s Military Community and Family Policy office. The goal is to ensure that military families have access to not only affordable but also high-quality child care. According to Lee Kelley, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for Military Community and Family Policy, "This initiative highlights the importance of community partnerships in expanding child care capacity where it is urgently needed, particularly for military and civilian workforce families."

Child care services are essential for enhancing workforce productivity, directly influencing the readiness and retention rates of military personnel across all branches. Unfortunately, waiting lists for care often stem from shortages in both military-operated and community child care programs. Currently, ASYMCA supports approximately 15,000 military children in their child care programs.

The new centers under this DoD contract will not only support the existing services but will also function within the community context. Each CDC will operate under licenses in Virginia and meet accreditation standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Military families can get more information regarding eligibility and care options at www.MilitaryChildCare.com.

In summary, the establishment of these child care centers not only aims to provide immediate relief for those currently grappling with child care access but also serves as a long-term commitment to the well-being of military families. It is a vital development that seeks to enhance the quality of life and operational readiness of service members, ensuring that they have the support they need, both at home and in their duties.

For further information about the Armed Services YMCA and its initiatives, visit www.asymca.org.