YMCA officials released the following press release today:
YMCAs Transition to Community Response Centers
Providing Emergency Childcare and Meal Services
MEMPHIS, TN (March 18, 2020) –
Due to the ongoing public health emergency presented by the COVID-19 virus outbreak and recommendations fromthe CDC and other health officials, the YMCA will be temporarily closing all 11 YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South locations effective at 8:00 p.m. on March 18, 2020.
According to the YMCA, the goal with the temporary closure is to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community before it threatens to overwhelm the public health system, while continuing to focus resources on providing services to healthcare workers, first responders, and those most vulnerable in our community.
“In times like these, the very best of who we are is called forward, giving us the opportunity to live our mission and values and promise to the community. Now, it is critical that we step up and respond to the needs in our community, redirect our expertise and resources, serve those who need us most, and provide inspirational leadership and hope for all. We will pivot our operations to focus on our community response to the unique circumstances created by the COVID-19 virus and repurpose our branches as community response centers,” said Jerry Martin, President and CEO for YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South.
YMCA Emergency Childcare For First Responders & Healthcare Workers:
Effective Thursday, March 19, 2020, Healthcare & First Responder Childcare will be offered 7 days a week from 6:00AM to 8:00PM to accommodate a 12-hour shift schedule for these families at various YMCA locations throughout our community. Care will be supervised by trained childcare team members for children ages 3 years (potty trained) to 12 years of age.
For more information and to sign up please visit www.ymcamemphis.org or call our Customer Support Center at 901-766-7677.
YMCA Partnering with School Districts for Meal Services:
The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South will be joining our schools partners to provide children access to meals at designated sites throughout our community. Meals are scheduled to be served between 11:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m beginning March 23, 2020. For a full list of meals site locations, visit: www.ymcamemphis.org
About the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South
The YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South is one of the area’s largest nonprofits focused on engaging individuals and families in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y is dedicated to helping people achieve goals, make friends and find a true sense of belonging. Branches offer quality time for families to be together, resources for parents, and a variety of opportunities for seniors to be active. The YMCA ensures these opportunities are available to everyone no matter their ability to pay with generous support from community partners and donors. For more information about the Y, visit ymcamemphis.org.