PHOENIX, Jan. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- For over 125 years the Valley of the Sun YMCA has been there for community members in need. In continuing with that tradition, the Y is offering its support to valley residents who are being impacted by the current government shutdown by providing free membership access.
With mounting stress that comes from meeting basic needs (food, housing, utilities) while not receiving a paycheck, the Y wants to be a resource during this time of uncertainty. According to the Office of Personnel Management, there are over 55,000 federal workers in Arizona. As we enter week four of the shutdown, the ramifications are hitting people right here in the valley and many uncertain when their next paycheck will come.
"We are thinking of our federal employees and their families during this tough time," said Peyton Tune, COO of the Valley of the Sun YMCA. "We want those being affected by the shutdown to know that the Y is here to provide a safe place that they can bring their families where they can feel unencumbered from their current financial concerns and enjoy quality time together. We never turn anyone away for their inability to pay."
Federal workers, both Y members and non-members, affected by the government shutdown are encouraged to visit their local YMCA branch. Locations can be found at valleyYMCA.org. Y members are asked to bring their government ID to any Y location in January and one month of dues will be waived. The Y wants to make sure members continue their well-being journey, especially now. Non-Y members can bring in their government ID and receive a complimentary one-month Y membership. Financial assistance for programs may also available on an individual basis. Tune continues, "The Y is about creating a place where we can meet goals, make friends and find a place to belong; it is where we can lean in and find help when we experience unplanned challenges."
About the Valley of the Sun YMCA
Valley of the Sun YMCA is one of the largest human service nonprofit organizations in Arizona. As the one of the oldest nonprofits in the state that celebrated its 125th birthday in 2017, the YMCA serves local communities in Maricopa County, Pinal County, Yuma, Flagstaff, and Prescott, offering more than 250 programs and 26 social services at its statewide locations. Members are welcome regardless of gender, religion, or ethnicity. Financial assistance is also available to those who qualify. The YMCA aims to provide each member with every opportunity to reach farther and improve their lives and the lives of those around them. Through Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility, the YMCA's goal is to inspire positive and lasting social change. For more information, visit http://www.valleyymca.org
SOURCE Valley of the Sun YMCA
Share this article