The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is serving our community in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic by providing free child care to workers on the frontlines of the crisis, offering virtual classes and programs, and reaching out to seniors who are isolated. From campfire sing-a-longs to cardio dance to culinary arts, the Y is helping everyone in our community stay active and engaged while staying at home.
Providing Care for Children
In response to the governor’s mandate, the Y is providing care for children of first responders, health care providers, and essential workers, allowing these heroes to focus on their responsibilities while their kids receive safe and enriching care. Full-day care for these children is free of charge for families and includes nutritious lunches provided by YMCA Camp Seymour.
The Y is currently working with school districts across Pierce and Kitsap Counties to provide care for 600 children at 14 school sites. All-day child care is currently available in the Bremerton, Central Kitsap, South Kitsap, Peninsula, Tacoma, Franklin Pierce, and Clover Park school districts.
Serving Our Community Virtually
The Y is also offering classes and programs online, where they can be accessed by the community. Virtual YMCA programs include live-streamed group exercise classes, activities for kids, guided art projects, spiritual and emotional support resources, tips for managing stress and finances, and much more. Explore Virtual YMCA programs at ymcapkc.org.
Reducing Social Isolation
As we work to safeguard the health of our community by avoiding social gatherings, we know that many seniors are feeling more disconnected than ever. The Y is reaching out to seniors with online resources to help them stay active at home. YMCA staff are also calling to check-in on members to offer connection and support for those who are isolated.
Answering the Most Urgent Need
With the COVID-19 outbreak evolving every day, the Y is working to find solutions for today and help our community emerge from this pandemic stronger than before. On April 1, the Y placed all membership accounts on hold and stopped collecting monthly dues. Now, they’re counting on the generosity of community members to maintain their crisis response efforts. Every gift matters — now more than ever.
Hannah and her family had only been members of the Y for a month before the COVID-19 outbreak hit Washington. Even though they can’t visit the Y, Hannah wanted to help the Y maintain critical programs for other families.
“My family is one of the few that has not been hurt financially during this time. Our child care options are luckily taken care of so I felt it was important to give to those who are struggling during this unprecedented time,” Hannah said. “It’s easy to feel powerless in such a time of high anxiety and uncertainty. Being able to help in any way possible helps to empower us as a family and as individuals. We are staying home to help prevent the spread of the virus, but anything else we can do to help our community is something worthwhile.”
You can join Hannah and hundreds of others who have stepped up to support the Y during these turbulent times. Make a donation today at ymcapkc.org/give/donate/.
About the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties
The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties has been enriching our communities for 125 years.
