RICHARDSON, Alaska — Global Credit Union has opened a new Child Watch childcare center at its branch on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, expanding access to short-term, drop-in childcare for military families, according to the credit union.
The center, created in partnership with the Armed Services YMCA of Alaska, offers care for infants through toddlers and is designed to provide a safe and engaging environment while parents attend appointments, run errands or handle other responsibilities.
Global Credit Union said it donated a portion of its branch space to house the center, continuing its collaboration with the Armed Services YMCA of Alaska to support military families.
The facility includes multiple play areas and age-appropriate activities intended to support learning, creativity and social interaction in a secure setting.
‘Changes the Experience’
“Access to nearby, trusted childcare changes the experience for many of my patients,” said Dr. MaryBeth Goodman, executive director of service member, veteran and family services at Alaska Behavioral Health. “The Child Watch center allows parents to focus on their appointments knowing their children are safe and cared for.”
The opening of the new center also frees up additional room at the existing Global–ASYMCA Learning Center, a classroom-based early learning and daycare program that previously shared space with the drop-in service, Global Credit Union said. With separate facilities, both programs are expected to better meet distinct childcare needs.
The Child Watch center is open to military families and is part of a broader effort by Global Credit Union and the Armed Services YMCA of Alaska to support family well-being and readiness on base, according to the credit union.
