YMCA of Silicon Valley Receives $1.75M Grant to Renovate Gavilan's Early Learning Center and Lab School
by YMCA of Silicon Valley on Dec 11, 2024Santa Clara, CA — YMCA of Silicon Valley is thrilled to announce a $1,749,800 grant from the Valley Health Foundation, funded by the County of Santa Clara’s Childcare Expansion Grant Program. This investment supports the renovation of the Gavilan College Child Development Center and the launch of the Early Learning Center. A check presentation ceremony celebrating this milestone took place on December 5, 2024, at Gavilan College in Gilroy.
“Valley Health Foundation is proud to steward this historic investment on behalf of the County of Santa Clara as we work toward a future where every family in our community has access to high-quality, affordable childcare,” said Michael Elliott, President & Executive Director of Valley Health Foundation.
The Childcare Expansion Grant Program enhances childcare facilities across Santa Clara County, prioritizing families most affected by the pandemic or unable to afford early learning programs. With this grant, the YMCA of Silicon Valley will create a modernized facility fostering early childhood development and addressing the rising demand for childcare in Gilroy and beyond.
“This project is an exciting opportunity to expand childcare resources in Gilroy for all families,” said Mary Haughey, COO of YMCA of Silicon Valley. “Thanks to Valley Health Foundation and Santa Clara County, we can provide children with a strong foundation for learning in a supportive, state-of-the-art environment.”
"Access to quality childcare is fundamental to educational equity and economic opportunity in our community,” said Dr. Pedro Avila, Superintendent/President of Gavilan College. “This grant represents a transformative investment in our Child Development and Educational Studies program, equipping students for success. The partnership between Gavilan College, YMCA of Silicon Valley, and Valley Health Foundation exemplifies the power of collaboration to strengthen our community.”
This renovation project also reflects the YMCA’s continued commitment to fostering educational growth and family support in Santa Clara County. By enhancing childcare services in Gilroy and South County, it addresses critical local needs exacerbated by the pandemic.
"I’m so thrilled to see this idea become a reality.” said Sylvia Arenas, who represents Gilroy on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors. “The need is so great. Hundreds of parents in Gilroy each year try to get their kids into childcare, but instead are stuck on waiting lists. There are simply not enough openings. This program will change the lives of the parents and the children. Parents will be able to return to work or finish their degrees. Kids will get safe childcare and early learning that will help them succeed in school. It’s a great win for Gilroy.”
The Childcare Expansion Grant Program is funded by the County of Santa Clara Through the Federal Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds under the American Rescue Plan Act.
For more information about the Gavilan College Early Learning Center and Lab School renovation or YMCA of Silicon Valley’s commitment to childcare and family resources, please contact Patty Rally, Chief Development Officer at 408-351-6481.
About The County of Santa Clara, California:
The County of Santa Clara government serves a diverse, multicultural population of 1.9 million residents in Santa Clara County, CA. The County provides essential services to its residents, including public health protection, environmental stewardship, medical services, child and adult protection services, homelessness prevention and solutions, roads, park services, libraries, emergency response to disasters, protection of minority communities and those under threat, access to a fair criminal justice system, and many other public benefits.
About YMCA of Silicon Valley:
YMCA of Silicon Valley is a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a network of facilities across the region, the YMCA is dedicated to serving individuals and families from all backgrounds and life stages.
About Valley Health Foundation:
Valley Health Foundation is a public benefit organization dedicated to advancing health equity in Santa Clara County through strategic investments in health services, infrastructure, and community support initiatives.