The 2026-2027 school year is just around the corner, and the YMCA of the Sandhills is helping parents and kids in Harnett and Cumberland counties get prepared with quality, affordable after school care and a back-to-school supply drive.

Families can learn more about the YMCA’s afterschool programs at the Saleeby Family YMCA in Cameron and the Fayetteville YMCA and register online at ymcaofthesandhills.org.

Beginning August 12 in Harnett County and August 24 in Cumberland County, the YMCA after school program serves families at 16 elementary and middle schools. These programs support working families by providing a safe, enriching place for children to thrive after the school day ends—complete with transportation, homework help, STEM and creative arts activities, fitness, nutritious snacks and character-building fun.

“Quality, affordable childcare is essential for working parents, and we’re proud to meet that need while helping kids stay active, engaged and supported after the school bell rings,” said Jeff Darling, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Sandhills. “We partner with local schools so that we can provide access to the Y’s after school care to more community members,” Darling said.

The Y can accommodate additional schools provided there are at least two children enrolled in the Y’s after school program; contact Chealsea Sias, Association Youth Director at the Y, for information. Financial assistance is available through the Y’s Open Doors program to ensure every child can participate, regardless of family income.

School Supply Drive 

The YMCA is also hosting a Back-to-School Supply Drive to help local students start the school year prepared and confident. Community members are invited to review the list of needed supplies at ymcaofthesandhills.org/events.

July 6-August 3 at the Saleeby Family YMCA, 107 Carletta Cagle Dr., Cameron (drop off donations at front desk)

July 25-August 1 at the Fayetteville YMCA at 2717 Fort Bragg Rd., Fayetteville (drop donations at front desk or at the Y’s Zumbathon on August 1)

The Y invites community members to donate supplies at either YMCA during their drive dates. To register for after school programs or to learn more about how to support the supply drives, visit www.ymcaofthesandhills.org or call 910-426-9622.