YWCA opens center for mothers, kids

A new center offers a place for mothers to relax and for children to play.
By D.A. WILKINSON
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
SALEM -- Imagine a place where harried mothers can go to relax while their children play.
The YWCA of Salem quietly opened its Family Drop In Center on Monday and planned a formal opening for this week. The details have not been set.
The center is in a house at 1028 N. Ellsworth Ave. that adjoins the Salem Community Center where the YWCA is based.
Victoria M. Curran, the executive director of the YWCA, said the center serves three purposes.
"It's a place for moms to take a break from the stresses of raising young children," Curran said.
Chance to learn
Mothers can also learn about child development and their children can be tested to determine if their development is appropriate for their age.
The center is open to children up to the age of five from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. No appointments are necessary, but parents on a tight schedule can make one if they are interested in a test by calling (330) 337-6117.
The program technically began July 1 when the YWCA obtained funding. It plans to offer the program for at least two years.
For moms and kids, there is no time limit on staying at the center. The only limit, said Curran is: "Kids have limits. Kids get bored."
And best of all, it's free.
The downstairs includes two carpeted rooms filled with toys. There's a small kitchen where mothers can leave their bottles of formula, if needed.
Upstairs is a room -- with a door -- for adult parents who need to relax.
"They can sit with other moms and have some quiet time," Curran said.
The upstairs will also include an office for Barbara Cary of Salem, who is a child development specialist.
"We can do tons of things," Cary said.
Testing
Cary can test children to determine how they are developing and refer the children to programs if needed. Mothers can also get information on a variety of health issues, such as breast cancer or nutrition, and other helpful programs.
Curran said the center is part of the YMCA's effort to increase services locally for women. Curran, who hails from the Pittsburgh area, said such centers are common there.
The drop in center received $33,000 from Family and Children First, a division of the Ohio Children's Trust Fund. Curran said the YWCA also used $8,300 of the funds it receives from the local United Way campaign. The community center owns the house and let the YWCA rent it for an affordable price.
Curran said she is still searching for more money for the estimated $100,000 it will take to run the program. She plans to hire more people and recruit volunteers.
wilkinson@vindy.com