FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2020
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario responds to urgent community needs during COVID-19
Although we can’t open our doors right now, we want you to know that the YMCA is here for the health and wellbeing of our communities. In response to this pandemic, we are supporting our communities in new and innovative ways - partnering with local organizations to create positive change and stay connected.
In Sarnia, we’ve partnered with United Way, the County of Lambton, Little Caesars, Inn of the Good Shepard, and Sarnia Produce to assemble care packages for local families. YMCA staff deliver 60 packages to families each week with food, household supplies, activities, and mental health resources. These deliveries are part of services through our three Resource Houses in Sarnia, which typically provide before-school breakfast programs, school healthy habits programs, and other family activities. Thank you to United Way and the County of Lambton for funding this program!
Under normal circumstances, the homeless population is one of the most vulnerable groups, but especially during this pandemic. In London, our Ys are working with local businesses and collecting non-perishable foods for the Lunch Bag Project. 150 lunches have already been distributed through service organizations supporting the homeless community. In addition, our Centre Branch has opened as a cooling centre offering shower services to the homeless. The showers are by appointment only, coordinated through outreach organizations, and follow public health guidelines. Our London branches are also collecting masks to support local hospitals.
Our Petrolia YMCA received funding from the Sarnia Lambton United Way to put together care packages for our senior members and Boomers program participants. 100 of these care packages, including a potted geranium, exercise band with instructions, and a greeting from the Y, were delivered by staff members from the Petrolia leadership team throughout the Town of Petrolia and Lambton County.
“Thank you very much for the SURPRISE gift. I have already used the exercise band and the beautiful red geranium is sitting in the sun in my front window. I’m very much looking forward to coming to the YMCA again - hopefully soon!!”
- Petrolia YMCA Member