YMCA limits facility access to local patrons only
The YMCA of Eastern Ontario will be screening all visitors, and turning away those who do not reside in Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox, Addington, Lanark and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, after today’s provincial announcement that will see some areas of the province returning to Stage 2.
“I am personally unhappy to share the news that we are also unable to honour the reciprocal agreements that we have with other Ys that allow members to access facilities across Canada,” Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario said. “But the most important thing right now is safety, so we are heightening the measures we have in place.”
According to a release from the YMCA of Eastern Ontario, anyone who comes to the Ys in Brockville or Kingston to purchase a day pass or any other service will have to show government-issued ID with proof of residence. Members who scan in are automatically flagged if they are from out-of-area and would, unfortunately, be turned away.
“The Y is a place of inclusivity and I don’t know of another time when we have had to turn anyone away like this,” said Adams. “This is an unprecedented time and our commitment since the beginning of the pandemic has been the safety of everyone who comes to the Y which is why this measure is needed.”
The YMCA says they have put in place many protocols for safety including, self-screening, wearing masks, maintaining safe physical distances, extra cleaning and sanitizing stations for personal use, and signage throughout both facilities. The Ys are closed between 1-3 p.m. from Monday to Friday for additional deep sanitizing.
About the YMCA of Eastern Ontario
The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is a charity that provides programs and services to improve health and health outcomes, develops leaders, helps build social connections and provides safe, inclusive spaces for people of all ages. The Y is Canada’s largest provider of childcare with trademarked curricula, and offers fitness and other programs including SCUBA, Karate and Total Life Care.