The YMCA of Delaware will open YMCA Camp Millsboro at Millsboro Middle School from June 15 through Aug. 21, expanding childcare options in Sussex County and serving more than 100 families. (Photo courtesy of YMCA of Delaware.)

The YMCA of Delaware announced plans to open a new summer day camp in Millsboro, aiming to expand childcare options in an area officials describe as a “childcare desert.”

The new program, YMCA Camp Millsboro, will be held at Millsboro Middle School and run from June 15 through Aug. 21. The camp is expected to serve more than 100 families across Sussex County, providing programming for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, as well as teens in grades six through eight.

Sussex County has long faced a shortage of licensed childcare options, particularly during the summer months when school is out. Officials say the new camp is intended to help meet that demand while offering structured activities for children.

“At the Y, we are committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, especially during the summer months,” said LoriKay Paden, Community Vice President and Executive Director of the Sussex Family YMCA. “The addition of YMCA Camp Millsboro allows us to expand our reach in Sussex County and provide more families with a trusted place for their children to stay active, build friendships, and continue learning while school is out.”

According to the YMCA, the camp will include a mix of outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, STEM activities, sports and academic enrichment designed to help prevent summer learning loss. Weekly off-site field trips, including beach outings, and water-based activities are also planned.

The organization said financial assistance will be available on a sliding scale, and it is working with the State of Delaware to accept Purchase of Care (POC), a subsidy program for income-eligible families.

In addition to traditional day camp programming, the site will offer a Teen Leadership Program for middle school students. The program, scheduled to run Monday through Thursday from June 29 through Aug. 20, will focus on leadership development, community involvement and team-building activities.

Officials said all camp staff will undergo background checks and receive training in child abuse prevention, CPR, first aid and youth development practices.

Registration for the camp is now open, and the YMCA is also hiring staff for the summer program.

Sara Uzer

Sara Uzer is a journalist from Sussex County with more than 15 years of experience as a writer, editor, and community advocate.  She started her career in Washington, DC and has lived in Sussex County for the past five years.