UA and YMCA team up to provide childcare relief for parenting students

Balancing college life and parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding reliable and affordable childcare. To help address this need, The University of Akron (UA) and the Akron Area YMCA have teamed up to launch a new Childcare Assistance Program designed specifically for college students who are also parents. This initiative is aimed at easing the financial burden of childcare so that students can focus on their academic goals. 

Funded by donors from UA Women in Philanthropy, the Childcare Assistance Program offers grants to enrolled UA students to help cover the cost of daycare at Akron Area YMCA facilities. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 per semester and may qualify for additional financial aid through the YMCA’s resources, ensuring minimal to no out-of-pocket costs for childcare. 

“We know that balancing college life with parenting is a juggling act for some of our students,” said Dr. John Messina, vice president of student affairs. “It was our goal to create an innovative program that would empower our parenting students to pursue their academic dreams without interruption. This initiative, made possible by the generous support of our Women in Philanthropy donors, was the perfect opportunity for us to partner with the Akron Area YMCA to help parenting students continue their education." 

The program stems from data collected through UA’s Campus Cupboard, a basic needs resource center that serves students facing hardships such as food insecurity and other challenges that impact their academic performance. ZipAssist, UA's multifaceted student support and advocacy team, also received numerous referrals through its Help-A-Zip process, highlighting childcare as a growing concern among student-parents. 

“We wanted to make sure that when the fall semester began, students who were balancing school and family life had the support they needed from day one,” said Alison Doehring, senior director, ZipAssist and student affairs development. “Whether it’s finding affordable daycare, handling household needs — or simply creating a sustainable schedule, this program is here to help.” 

Students who wish to apply for the program can submit a Help-A-Zip referral at amwn.518331.com/referral and indicate “Childcare Assistance.” UA and the Akron Area YMCA are working closely to make sure that students are connected to the right resources and financial aid options, with five YMCA locations available for families to choose from. 

With $100,000 in initial funding, the program anticipates supporting around 50 students. Students are not required to be full-time or meet specific financial aid criteria, making this an inclusive option for all parenting students enrolled at UA. 

“If you’re a parenting student, don’t let childcare concerns hold you back — let us help you achieve your academic and parenting goals with peace of mind,” Doehring encouraged. “The Akron Area YMCA has been an outstanding partner, and their commitment to offering affordable childcare is a crucial piece of this initiative.” 

As part of this partnership, students interested in nonprofit work will also have the chance to explore internships and job opportunities with the Akron Area YMCA. 

This program is just one part of UA’s broader effort to provide comprehensive, wraparound services to its students. In addition to childcare support, the Campus Cupboard has expanded to include items for children, such as diapers and baby food, further emphasizing the University's commitment to the well-being of student-parents. 

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd; cboyd@518331.com; 330-972-6476