Local YMCA awarded grant to help offset re-opening costs

The YMCA of Eastern Ontario has recieved a grant from the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area (CFKA).

The grant, $34,000 in funds, comes from the Emergency Community Support Fund and the James & Julie Parker Family Foundation, and will be put toward the costs of re-opening the Kingston facility and helping the YMCA provide a safe and secure environment, the YMCA said in a statement.

“The cost of the pandemic to charities has been enormous,” said Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “Fundraising and fees have been severely impacted which is why this type of grant is so valuable in helping us re-open in a stronger position than we would have been.”

According to the YMCA, these funds will go toward covering the additional costs of reopening with safety measures, including sanitation equipment and hand sanitizing stations, safety signage and controlling building access.

“Managing necessary pandemic protocols go beyond regular operational costs so receiving this funding helps us to continue to deliver our mission in Eastern Ontario,” Adams said. “We are working to open our doors in a way that is safe and well planned, and are looking forward to seeing people back at their Y.”

The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is re-opening its Kingston and Brockville facilities on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020. Details on the re-opening of the Kingston branch can be found here: Local YMCA readies to reopen in September.