The Werner Early Learning Childcare Center (WELCC) is embarking on an exciting new chapter, relocating and expanding its services to a newly constructed building in the Salem Square area of York City. This significant project will move the center from its current address at 400/402 W. Market Street to 636 West Poplar Street, marking a major step forward in providing crucial early learning childcare to the community.
Located in one of York City’s most economically disadvantaged areas, between School Place and West Poplar Street, the new center is being built on the site of a former parking lot of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church. This strategic location will enhance accessibility for families in need and contribute to the revitalization of the Salem Square neighborhood.
WELCC is committed to offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to support the holistic development of young children and strengthen families. These vital programs include child-centered creative art, play, and psychotherapies, alongside a critical crisis respite nursery – one of only three in Pennsylvania. Furthermore, the center will provide traditional day childcare, family advocacy services, parent education workshops, and supportive parent groups. Recognizing the diverse needs of the community, WELCC also operates a 24-hour caregiver hotline and a gently used children’s clothing and toy bank, providing essential resources to families and actively working to prevent child abuse and neglect.
This expansion will enable the Children’s Aid Society to significantly enhance its crisis nursery services and introduce much-needed third-shift and traditional childcare options for infants and young children. The need for expanded childcare services in York County is critical. According to PA 211, licensed third-shift childcare is currently non-existent in the region. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the situation, leading to the permanent closure of fifty-six traditional day childcare facilities and leaving remaining centers operating at full capacity with waitlists exceeding two years. Child Care Works of PA reports that a staggering 85-89%, or 8,815, of eligible infants and toddlers in York County are currently unserved, underscoring the urgent need for increased early learning childcare capacity.
The Werner Early Learning Childcare Center expresses sincere gratitude to its generous project supporters: Fred and Naomi Werner, PA Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), Powder Mill Foundation, J. William Warehime Foundation, R. Lee Shenk, Glatfelter Insurance Group, Arthur J. & Lee R. Glatfelter Foundation, Calvary United Methodist Church, GSL Consulting, Wagman Construction, and Core Design Group, and Site Design Concepts. Their commitment is instrumental in making this vital project a reality for the children and families of York City.
Contact Information:
The Werner Early Learning Childcare Center
620-676 York, PA 17401
Phone: 717-845-5771
24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-635-6619
Fax: 717-852-7605
