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
