YWCA Boulder County offering child care scholarships for furloughed workers

Jan. 15--YWCA Boulder County is funding registration fees and other costs for furloughed workers who need drop-in child care at its Children's Alley center in Boulder.

As the government shutdown stretches to Day 25 on Tuesday, the YWCA is seeking to provide temporary care for the children of furloughed employees and government contractors in the area, including those who use the Commerce Children's Center at the U.S. Department of Commerce'sBoulder labs campus.

"For us, we really recognize the struggle that people are having as they're furloughed," said Kate Hise, Children's Alley director. "... We just feel like this is something that could help people who are having a hard time right now."

She said about 100 children receive care at the Commerce Children's Center, but the scholarships are open to any federal employee or contractor in the Front Range. They are funded from the YWCA's scholarship fund, which is fueled by fundraising and donations.

"I know that some of the people that I've talked to are still trying to keep up with some of the work they're doing at home," she said.

Other parents might seek a break during a time that has been unexpected and stressful for them, she added.

Hise remembers when she worked at the Commerce Children's Center and faced a government shutdown with a preschool-age daughter. It can be hard for workers who are suddenly faced with no place to go and no paycheck, she said.

"This is a perfect time for us to be able to offer that," she said.

Children's Alley is open Monday through Saturday, and parents must make a reservation at 2 p.m. the day prior. Saturday reservations can be made any time during the week. The center provides care for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Reservations can be made by calling 303-449-1951.

The YWCA is among a number of Boulder County business and organizations offering support to those affected by the shutdown, including free meals, discounts and late fee waivers.

Local food banks are providing groceries and emotional support for clients nervous about their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and whether they will continue, too.

Cassa Niedringhaus: 303-473-1106, cniedringhaus@dailycamera.com

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