While we know that the YMCA is a place to get active and connect with others, one of the biggest parts in developing and nurturing this type of community comes from our motto: "For a better us."
That's why, every holiday season and throughout the year, we partner up with local organizations and charities to take the steps needed in creating a better future. Here's how we're making an effort to support our community this season.
Military Missions
November marks the start of Military Family Appreciation Month, a time for us to remember and honor veterans, those who are serving, and help support their families during their absence. Around 20 years ago, Military Missions was created in order to do just that. All year long, the organization provides deployed military personnel with personalized care packages.
This year, the Y is helping collect men's and women's socks — and that's where you come in. Bring these items to the C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA, and your donations could make a deployed heroes holidays a little brighter. Donations will be accepted through Mid-November.
Winter Food Drive
In partnership with Frederick Douglass High School Girls Soccer and Feel Good Nutrition LLC, the Whitaker Family YMCA is asking for your help donating supplemental food items that will ensure families are fed over the holidays. Nonperishable goods can be dropped off at the donation table. Here's what is needed:
- Cereal
- Pop-Tarts
- Mac & cheese
- Ramen noodles
- Applesauce cups
- Fruit cups
- Microwave popcorn
- Pudding cups
- Granola bars
- Oatmeal cups
- Rice Krispies
- Soup cups
- Chef Boyardee cups
- Beef jerky
- Peanut butter crackers
Donations are being accepted until Friday, Dec. 6.
Compassion Care Packages
Students in the YMCA Black Achievers program will be creating compassion care packages to donate to Catholic Action Center for individuals experiencing homelessness this winter season for their community service project.
If you are interested in donating items to support the packages, below is a list of items needed:
- Winter hats
- Winter gloves
- Individually wrapped snacks (ex: granola bars, peanut butter crackers, etc.)
- Pair of socks
- Toothpaste (travel size)
- Toothbrush
- Deodorant
- Hand sanitizer (travel size)
- Small Kleenex packs (travel size)
- Chapstick
- Hand warmers
- Wet Ones (travel size)
Donations can be dropped off at the High Street YMCA and will be accepted through Thursday, Dec. 12.
