Groundbreaking Held for TidalHealth Kids in Seaford

SEAFORD, DELAWARE – FEBRUARY 17, 2026 –   Gillis Gilkerson recently joined TidalHealth as they celebrated the groundbreaking for a new childcare center, marking a significant step forward in the health system’s mission to support not only the health of and well-being of the community, but that of its own team members and their families.  The Seaford location will be the first of four childcare centers being constructed for its team members.  Additional centers are planned for Salisbury and Berlin, Maryland, as well as, Millsboro, Delaware.

Recognizing their staff’s need for expanded access to childcare, TidalHealth is launching “TidalHealth Kids”, a network of four new childcare centers operated in partnership with KinderCare Learning Centers, one of the nation’s most respected providers of early childhood education.  The Seaford center — designed to serve 120 children and opening near the end of this year — will be the first of the four to officially take shape.

Under this unique partnership model, TidalHealth provides the facility space, while KinderCare oversees operations, staffing, curriculum and administration. This ensures that children will receive high-quality, nurturing care while parents have peace of mind.  KinderCare teachers focus on meeting children where they are and nurturing each child’s curiosity. Whether children are working on their first steps or writing their first words, KinderCare teachers help children build independence, strengthen communication and meet those developmental milestones crucial to early childhood.

“This isn’t just a benefit for our team — it’s a commitment to a better future for them,” said Steve Tracy, vice president of corporate ventures for TidalHealth and president of Peninsula Health Ventures. “By easing the daily stress of finding quality childcare for those we employ, we can create stronger families, a more focused workforce, and a healthier community.  With easier access to childcare, TidalHealth strengthens its position as an employer of choice, supporting work-life balance, helping attract and retain top talent, and reinforcing its commitment to families across Delmarva.”

Joining childcare kids and their moms, the groundbreaking was commemorated with Demi Gilmore, TidalHealth vice president/chief human resources officer; Carissa Messick, KinderCare senior partnership manager; Steve Tracy, president, TidalHealth Corporate Ventures and Penny Short, president of TidalHealth Nanticoke.