The community is invited to the ribbon-cutting for My Place: A Play and Learning Center’s new location (Glen Lakes Apartments, 207 East 2nd Street, Watkins Glen, NY). Hosted by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, the event is scheduled for June 1, 2021, at 6:00 p.m., and will feature brief presentations by local officials and the Center’s Executive Director, facility tours, and an opportunity to meet the Center’s leadership and teaching staff. Reservations are not required for the event. COVID guidelines will be followed.

 

“Childcare is a critical component of livable communities for many families in rural areas,” said Michael Hardy, Executive Director of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce. “Whether by necessity or choice, the majority of parents work, and many depend upon formal, organized, out-of-home care to make that possible. We, in Schuyler County, are extremely fortunate to have access to the superb care and services provided by My Place.”

 

My Place moved into the current location in February 2021, after a successful building project managed by Welliver. Holt Architects and Hunt Engineers collaborated to create the commercial space designed specially to serve childcare needs. The project was funded in part with DRI resources and the facility is owned by INHS (Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services). The Second Street location has 7,341 square feet, including five classrooms, meeting/program space for families, a commercial kitchen for meals, offices for staff, and a dedicated playground. It accommodates 20 additional children daily from its former Montour Falls home, a 32% percent increase per day. Including the after-school program established in 2017, full daily capacity is 63 children, ages 6 weeks through 12 years.

 

“Childcare matters, and it is everyone’s business,” said Executive Director Kristine Morseman. “To keep our talent in Schuyler County, we need to offer safe and affordable childcare. At My Place, we are committed to providing a sustainable model of care that promotes family and community partnerships and quality childhood learning experiences through play.  We make it possible for parents to be gainfully employed without having to worry about the health and happiness of their children.”

 

Morseman, who has a background in teaching and human services, oversees a staff of 18 teachers, assistant teachers, and support staff.