Greater Valley YMCA Offers Free Preschool Education Program through Pre-K Counts Grant

The Greater Valley YMCA is launching new Pre-K Counts Program sites at the Allentown branch and Bethlehem branch, in addition to the existing program at the Forks Education Center.

Pre-K Counts is designed for children starting at age three and until they enter kindergarten. Families are encouraged to apply if they meet the income criteria; currently 300% of the federal poverty level or $73,800 for a family of four. The program is free to families who qualify. Additional fees apply to extended child care.

Studies have shown that children who are enrolled in a quality pre-kindergarten program have a better chance of being ready for elementary school. This strong early start in pre‑kindergarten means they have a better chance of doing well in school, going on to college or career training, and getting a good job.

The Pre-K Counts Program at the Allentown branch is currently accepting applications for pre-kindergarten classes for the 2017-18 school year. Classes are scheduled to begin November 2017 at the Pre-K Counts Program located at 425 15th Street, Allentown, PA 18102.

The Pre-K Counts Program at the Bethlehem branch is currently accepting applications for pre-kindergarten classes for the 2017-18 school year. Classes are scheduled to begin October 2017 at the Pre-K Counts Program located at 430 E. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018.

The Pre-K Counts Program at the Forks Education Center is currently accepting applications for a waitlist for the pre-kindergarten classes which began on August 28, 2017 at the Pre-K Counts Program located at 1350 Sullivan Trail, Easton, PA 18040.

Applications can be obtained at the branches or can be downloaded from the Greater Valley YMCA website at www.gv-ymca.org.

The Greater Valley YMCA is a seven facility YMCA association serving the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania, including the counties of Northampton and Lehigh, plus Warren in New Jersey. The Y’s mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We believe that positive, lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. At the Y, we positively impact individual lives at every age, from birth through span of life. Everyone is welcome at the Y. Financial assistance is provided to those who may not be able to afford the full cost of programs and services, on a percentage amount based on need.