Bayhealth early learning center project granted $50K from M&T

The Bayhealth Foundation has received a $50,000 grant from the M&T Charitable Foundation to support the new Bayhealth Child Care and Early Learning Center on the Sussex Campus.

This new center will offer Bayhealth team members working on that campus peace of mind, knowing their children have a safe environment where they can thrive.

The check was presented to Bayhealth President and CEO Terry Murphy and Bayhealth Foundation President Lindsay Rhodenbaugh by M&T Bank Regional President for Delaware Mark Hutton during a recent visit to the regional headquarters of M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust in Wilmington.

“We continue to be grateful to the M&T Foundation for their efforts to support Bayhealth families,” said Rhodenbaugh. “Expanding to Sussex County is our way of supporting our Bayhealth team members who deliver our mission of serving the community every day, and offering their children a safe, nurturing environment that is full of opportunities to grow and learn.”

Bayhealth currently operates a childcare center at the Kent Campus in Dover, which consistently fills its 70 available spots and maintains a waiting list of more than 150 children. Many of those on the waiting list are from the Milford area and will greatly benefit from a closer facility. The new center will be just steps away from Bayhealth Sussex Hospital doors, conveniently located for eligible team members with infants, toddlers and school-aged children.

“For those who have minimal childcare options in the area or currently take their children to the Kent Campus for care, the new site will make all the difference,” said Rhodenbaugh.

Bayhealth expects to open its new facility this fall with 102 available spots, which may grow over time to 204 spots, giving priority to families currently on the waiting list who work at the Sussex Campus. The center will be open from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., offering more childcare options for employees who work 12-hour hospital shifts.

“Our teams at M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust are dedicated to creating meaningful, lasting change in the communities we serve,” said Hutton. “By supporting Bayhealth’s expansion of childcare services, we are helping hardworking team members focus on their essential work while knowing their children are cared for in a safe, enriching environment. It’s a privilege to contribute to such an impactful project.”