Credit: Google Maps

CHICAGO — Six YMCA centers will offer a paid day of programs for kids when Chicago Public Schools is off Friday.

The city has dubbed Friday a Vaccination Awareness Day, canceling CPS classes and offering two hours early release to city workers so they can take kids to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Officials have urged private workplaces to give adults time off to get vaccinated or take their kids for the shots, too.

Some parents were dismayed by the short notice and were struggling to find child care.

In response, the YMCA will offer a full day of child care to families Friday. The programs will be available at all six of the organization’s centers in Chicago.

Kids will do various math, arts and craft and physical activities.

Kids 5-12 can participate in the program, which will run 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday. It will have openings on a first-come, first-served basis.

The rates vary based on location and start at $40 a day for members. Financial assistance is available for some. Families can call their local YMCA for financial information.

The centers:

  • Irving Park: 4251 W. Irving Park Road, 773-777-7500
  • Kelly Hall: 824 N. Hamlin Ave., 773-886-1220
  • Lake View: 3333 N. Marshfield Ave., 773-248-3333
  • McCormick: 1834 N. Lawndale Ave., 773-235-2525
  • Rauner Family: 2700 S. Western Ave., 773-847-3115
  • South Side: 6330 S. Stony Island Ave., 773-947-0700

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