Back-to-School Countdown: YMCA After School Helps Families Bridge the Gap
Roanoke, VA (July 16, 2025) – With a new school year just weeks away, the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is gearing up to support hundreds of local families through its Y After School program. As one of the Roanoke Valley’s largest and longest-running childcare providers, the Y has been a steady partner to families for generations, offering safe, enriching care when it’s needed most.
“Our Y After School Care program blends homework help, active play, and character-building activities into a safe environment where kids can thrive beyond the classroom,” said Alicia Kindred, Childcare Director of YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. “This year we will focus our activities on the Y’s core values of Caring, Responsibility, Respect, and Honesty.”
Y After School operates on-site at elementary schools across Roanoke City, Roanoke County, City of Salem, Rockbridge County, Lexington City, and Botetourt County, serving children ages 3–12 with programs designed to support both students and working families.
"We know balancing work and family is challenging, especially when the school day ends before the workday does," added Kindred. Last year, the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge provided childcare for over 1,600 families, and this year will be no different.
Y After School 2025–2026 Locations:
Roanoke City Public Schools
Crystal Spring, Fairview, Fallon Park, Fishburn Park, Grandin Court, Highland Park, Hurt Park, Monterey, Virginia Heights, Wasena, Westside
(Ages 3–12 | August 19, 2025 – June 4, 2026 | Open on early release, teacher workdays, breaks & snow days)
City of Salem & Roanoke County
East Salem, Fort Lewis, GW Carver, South Salem, West Salem
(Kindergarten–5th | August 14 (Roanoke County) August 18 (City of Salem), 2025 – May 28, 2026 | Open on early release, teacher workdays, breaks & snow days)
Rockbridge County & Lexington City
Central, Fairfield (Rockbridge) | Waddell (Lexington)
(Ages 5–12 | August 12, 2025 – May 21, 2026 | Open on planned holiday breaks)
Botetourt County
Breckinridge, Buchanan, Cloverdale, Colonial, Eagle Rock, Greenfield, Troutville
(Ages 5–12 | August 11, 2025 – May 20, 2026 | Open on early release, teacher workdays, breaks & snow days)
As a nonprofit, the YMCA works to make high-quality after school care accessible for families of all income levels through scholarships and Virginia DSS Assistance — ensuring cost is never a barrier to participation. Registration is now open for the 2025–2026 school year. Families can learn more or apply for financial assistance here.