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YMCA of Bucks increases financial assistance for community members

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In response to increased financial hardship within the community due to the COVID-19 pandemic, YMCA of Bucks County is increasing financial assistance maximums for child care and membership through the end of the year, while funds remain available.
It is also “fast-tracking” financial assistance for membership to anyone in the community who is experiencing a job loss or job reduction due to the pandemic.
At the onset of the pandemic, YMCA of Bucks County created a special initiative to raise money and provide support for local needs caused by the crisis. Due to the generosity of donors, the Operation Compassion Relief Fund will now provide additional funding to the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, making these increases possible.
“We always strive to meet needs in our community,” said Zane Moore, president/CEO of YMCA of Bucks County. “Local families and individuals need help now, and thanks to our many generous donors, we can provide additional support to enable them to get back on their feet.”
YMCA financial assistance is granted through an application process and takes into consideration income, family size, health issues and other special situations. Assistance is granted on a sliding scale with individuals and families qualifying at different levels based on the criteria.
Through the end of the year, financial assistance for child care is increased to a maximum of 80%, meaning that families could pay as low as 20% of the fees with financial assistance covering 80% of the fees. At the same time, assistance for membership and programs will increase to a maximum of 75%. These increases are an increase over the usual 70% maximum for child care and 50% maximum for membership and programs.
YMCA of Bucks County is also providing “fast-track” access to membership to those experiencing financial hardship due to job loss or job reduction. The program provides membership at 75% of the current fees, through the remainder of 2020, as funds allow. It is administered through a simple application to expedite membership without completing the full financial assistance application process.
 
“We believe that people need the Y especially during difficult times, like job loss,” said Moore. “Y membership provides an outlet for stress through our wellness and fitness amenities as well as the social and emotional support that our Y community offers.”
Individuals interested in applying for financial assistance as well as those who would like to contribute to the Operation Compassion Relief Fund should visit the Y’s website at ymcabucks.org/giving/operation-compassion.


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