Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital announces early learning center to enhance work-life balance for employees

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital is excited to announce the upcoming opening of the Sentara Martha Jefferson Early Learning Center, scheduled for September 2025. Designed to support employees and their families, the center will provide high-quality early childhood education and care, helping staff balance the demands of work and family life. By offering on-site, reliable childcare, employees can focus on their work, knowing their children are nearby in a safe and nurturing environment.

The Sentara Martha Jefferson Early Learning Center is part of Sentara’s ongoing commitment to investing in its team members. Supported by a $10 million investment from Sentara Health and a $5 million endowment campaign led by the Martha Jefferson Hospital Foundation, the center reflects the organization's recognition that meeting the personal needs of staff is essential to delivering exceptional patient care. Designed with the unique challenges of working parents in mind, this on-site facility will provide a convenient, supportive solution that helps employees balance their professional and family responsibilities.

"This project goes beyond simply creating a childcare facility,” said Paul Gaden, Regional President, Western Region for Sentara. “It’s about recognizing the incredible dedication of our team members and supporting them in meaningful ways. By offering this resource, we’re ensuring that our staff can thrive both personally and professionally, which in turn enables them to continue to deliver the highest level of care to our patients.”

In collaboration with the Piedmont Family YMCA, an organization known for its excellence in early childhood education, the center will offer a range of programs that foster children’s development during their formative years. This partnership ensures that the center will provide more than just care—it will create an enriching environment where children can grow and thrive.

As Sentara Martha Jefferson continues to prioritize its employees, the Early Learning Center represents a critical step in supporting team members and their families. Expected to open in fall 2025, the Sentara Martha Jefferson Early Learning Center will be a cornerstone of support for team members and their families, reinforcing Sentara’s commitment to investing in the people who dedicate themselves to the care and well-being of others.