Portland, OR – In September, the YMCA Columbia-Willamette reopened their childcare
center in downtown Portland at the Moda Tower, located at 601 S.W. 2nd Avenue. This
new addition offers much-needed support to families navigating Oregon’s challenging
childcare market.
The childcare facility serves 27 families in the Portland-area, and many are grateful for
the availability of child care in the downtown core.
The YMCA Columbia-Willamette has a rich history of service in the Portland area,
dating back to its founding in 1868. With a focus on youth development, physical and
spiritual well-being, and social responsibility, the organization continues to make a
positive impact in the community. Currently, there are four YMCA Columbia-Willamette
facilities, as well as over 30 partnerships with schools and centers.
This new childcare program is part of a broader initiative by the YMCA Columbia-
Willamette to enhance its presence in Portland. Before 2013, the YMCA operated out of
the current Under Armour building near Duniway Park in Southwest Portland. Since
then, the organization has been working to increase its visibility and expand its services
in the city.
"The YMCA is deeply committed to Portland’s future, and we're thrilled to help shape a
new chapter for the city with this expanded childcare offering. Our administrative offices
will now also be in the Moda Tower. We’re excited to build on our longstanding tradition
of service as we continue to support this community," said Matt McGinnis, YMCA-CW
Board Chair.
The new childcare center is part of the pre-school for all initiative and serves three and
four-year-olds, and offers a curriculum focused on readiness for reading and writing as
well as focusing on social and emotional skills.
About YMCA Columbia-Willamette: The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette creates
opportunities for children and adults to achieve health and build community through play
and learning. In 2022, the YMCA provided 430,000 nutritious meals to kids and families,
delivered 1 million hours of childcare and educational support, gave 4,750 youth a camp
experience, and taught 5,500 youth swim lessons with a focus on water safety. Learn
more at ymcacw.org.
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