The Granite YMCA of Somersworth Ribbon Cutting & Groundbreaking Ceremony

September 11, 2025

Somersworth, NH: On August 28th, 2025 The Granite YMCA of Somersworth hosted a ribbon cutting to unveil its newly renovated early learning spaces and a groundbreaking for a brand-new playground. The upgraded classrooms and family areas expand capacity to serve up to 134 children (104 infant to pre-K and 30 for school age care) strengthening families, supporting parents and caregivers, and advancing early childhood development across Strafford County. Renovations include refreshed learning environments, safety and accessibility enhancements, and age-appropriate features designed to foster curiosity, social-emotional growth, and school readiness.

"Two years ago, what was the Somersworth Early Learning Center, an independent non-profit, was struggling to recover from the pandemic’s crushing impact on childcare centers. When this came to our attention, The Granite YMCA leadership saw the opportunity to help by revitalizing the center in order to ensure that all members of the local community have access to childcare. Together with the City of Somersworth and our partners, what is now The Granite YMCA of Somersworth Child Care Center will offer the best learning and teaching environment for many years to come," said Michele Sheppard, President/CEO of The Granite YMCA.

The funding consists of a generous support from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, City of Somersworth, Granite United Way, George Merck Fund, NH Charitable Foundation’s NH Tomorrow Fund, and Granite State Credit Union.