Report from GSA

As you are aware, GSA builds out and maintains work site child care facilities that are operated by local providers. These providers staff the centers, provide developmentally appropriate programs and related services for the children and families enrolled in each center.

Castle Kids Child Development Center operated by the YMCA and sponsored by the US Army Corp of Engineers, located on the Mississippi Levy is our only center in New Orleans, LA. Prior to Katrina approximately 95 children were enrolled in this center. Many families and staff have evacuated the city to other states and some are still unaccounted for. As the city is under mandatory evacuation, BJ Upton, GSA Regional Child Care Coordinator, does not know when the center will reopen. From the first report the facility is in tact but we do not know if interior damage was sustained. At this point all efforts are concentrated on evacuation and locating staff, families and children.

GSA also sponsors the Little Acorns Child Development Center in Jackson, MS located in the Dr. A.H. McCoy Federal Building. This center was closed for several days last week but is in full operation this week. We do not have any GSA sponsored centers on the Gulf Cost of MS or Alabama.

Nancy W. Norris, National Child Care Program Specialist, GSA