Governor Ayotte Champions Nonprofit Role in Increasing Childcare Access

CONCORD, N.H. - Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte attended the ribbon cutting for the Greater Nashua YMCA's Early Education Center in Merrimack, celebrating the completion of a $2.7 million renovation that makes the facility the largest childcare site in New Hampshire and the largest YMCA childcare facility in the country.

"We need more affordable childcare options for working families in our state, and I'm proud to see the YMCA expand their facility today to serve more children and their parents," said Governor Kelly Ayotte. "I am grateful to everyone who made this expansion possible and proud to support efforts that keep New Hampshire the best place to live, work, and raise a family. We will continue to work with our nonprofits, businesses, and community partners across the state to expand access to high-quality, affordable childcare."

"This project is about more than square footage. It is about access, opportunity, and supporting families when they need it most," said Mike LaChance, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Nashua. "We know that nearly 90 percent of a child's brain development happens before age five. By investing in high-quality early education environments, we are investing directly in the future of our community and workforce."

The expanded center now serves approximately 450 children, many from working families who rely on childcare so they can remain in the workforce and build stable futures for their families. A significant number of children enrolled at the site are supported by the YMCA and the State of New Hampshire.

Last year's budget fully funded childcare scholarships and reduced unnecessary administrative barriers for families accessing that support. Governor Ayotte also highlighted her support for a tax credit for employers who invest in childcare for their workforce as part of her continued focus on supporting working families.