YMCA to offer free daycare service for parents who want to vote on Election Day

PHOENIX (KSAZ) -- There is a great (and free) option available for those who want to vote at the polls during Election Day on Tuesday, but don't want to bring their children with them.

The YMCA is offering free childcare to parents, just for Election Day. The offer is valid at all of its Valley of the Sun locations from 8:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m., and covers four hours of child care. They are offering this to all parents who want to vote, even those who are not YMCA members.

"I think every state can do a better job of lowering the barriers," said one person. "I think Arizona has come a long way, but hopefully we can make some more progress in the coming years."

"They can participate in different games, activities, arts and crafts," said Dawn Stipe, Associate Executive Director of the Ahwatukee YMCA. "We're also going to have a mock election for the kids to vote on their favorite candy and cartoon character."

While YMCA officials say the hope it won't take longer than four hours to vote, in the event it does, officials say they parents need to call and explain, and they won't charge extra.

Parents who were working out at the Y on Friday say they are excited to exercise, so to speak, this free service.

"It's kind of like a contradiction when someone is saying they want this, but yet you're not voting," said one person. "It's important to vote so you can get what you want."

Children of all ages are welcome at the Y on Election Day, but they must be potty-trained. The YMCA also asks that people pre-register for child before Election Day, if they can, by calling or visiting their closest YMCA location.