Childcare and Hunger Relief Among Important Services
Wilmington, DE– Though the YMCA of Delaware’s doors have temporarily closed for typical operations, the Y is still here for the community during this challenging time. In response to the current global pandemic, the YMCA of Delaware has mobilized response efforts to offer needed programs and services including childcare for emergency workers and essential personnel, hunger relief for those in need and online health and fitness offerings.
Childcare For Emergency Workers And Essential Personnel – Beginning Monday, March 30th, the Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA, the Brandywine YMCA and the Sussex Family YMCA will begin offering childcare services for any emergency personnel and essential staff. This service is open to the public. Care will be available for school-age children (5-12 years old) from 6:30 am- 6:30 pm Monday- Friday. Children will enjoy arts, crafts, games, sports, homework help, movies, and supervision from experienced Y staff. Those interested in utilizing these services should visit www.ymcade.org/emergency-child-care or email [email protected] for more details and to register. The Central and Walnut Street YMCAs will be offering childcare to families who are essential personnel and have already been enrolled at those sites. As the demand for emergency childcare increases, we will look at opening other facilities to support our essential personnel and first responders.
Food Distribution To Those In Need – The YMCA of Delaware has partnered with the Food Bank of Delaware to provide multiple food distribution sites throughout the state including the Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA, Brandywine YMCA, Central YMCA, Western YMCA and Dover YMCA. Community members will be able to pick up boxes of pre-packaged non-refrigerated/non-perishable food staples. Days and times may vary by location and week, so please visit www.ymcade.org/food-distribution for the most up to date information.
“For 175 years, the Y has been here for our communities in times of crisis, and this is no different. We have been working diligently on plans and partnerships to provide needed programs and services to Delawareans,” said Deborah Bagatta-Bowles, YMCA of Delaware CEO. “Our commitment to the community remains strong. The work our Y is tackling is critical and will be an essential part of our state’s response, and an important pathway back to wellness.”
In response to the critical needs of our community, The YMCA of Delaware is accepting donations to help meet the needs of the community. To make a charitable contribution to the Emergency Relief Fund, visit donate.ymcade.org/COVID19.