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The River Valley Regional YMCA is committed to serving our community even while their doors are closed. To support their members, volunteers, and staff while at home they've created a new webpage (rvrymca.org/healthy-at-home) offering workouts from local group exercise instructors and other great resources to keep people motivated and active while at home. Workouts are also being provided through social media and Zoom meetings.
Other online resources the Y is providing include social distancing activities, reading challenges for children, and more ways to connect with as many individuals and families as possible. This includes connecting with our active older adults through online workouts as well as providing other resources to keep them social.
The YMCA is partnering with the American Red Cross by making their facilities available to host blood drives throughout April and May.
The Y is also partnering with local businesses, organizations and school districts to ensure that no child or family goes hungry due to food insecurity.
The Tioga County Branch YMCA saw a 25 percent increase in new requests for food through their Fresh Express program. The Lock Haven Branch served 27 families through their Backpack food program.
The Eastern Lycoming Branch packed and delivered boxes of food to 10 families from their Safe Spaces Program. The Williamsport Branch delivered food to youth who participate in the Youth Mentor Program. The Jersey Shore Branch served 350 lunches to teens in their community, and the Bradford County Branch, in collaboration with Child Hunger Outreach Partnership, will be offering a pop up food pantry to feed 150 families on April 20.
"The YMCA cannot do this alone," explained Sonja Davy, Williamsport branch executive director. "Through continued member and community support the Y can continue to serve and impact those who need our help the most."
How can YOU help?
"Consider supporting the YMCA by keeping your membership if possible through this uncertain time, says Charity Field, district branch executive director. "That way the Y can remain strong and able to help the community even more when we do open our doors."
Active older adults who receive memberships through Silver Sneakers can help the Y while also staying active. Your local Y can be reimbursed for completed virtual workouts. Simply track your workouts on the page provided and email to your local branch. All workout levels are available including seated, low or moderate impact, and high impact. Go to rvrymca.org/healthy-at-home to get started.
Updates will be provided through their website and social media pages while they are closed. Those unable to remain with the Y, are asked to please contact their local branch and leave a voicemail or email for the membership director and they will place your membership on hold until we reopen.
While there is no definitive opening date the YMCA is looking forward to opening their doors to all of their members, staff, and volunteers as soon as possible. The Y asks that everyone remain patient and supportive as they navigate through this and be assured that the Y will remain standing and will continue to be a vital part of the community.