As the federal government shutdown continues, the seven branches of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine are extending support to those impacted.

Any federal government employee who is not being paid due to the government shutdown is welcome to use the YMCA’s facilities free of charge during this time. If the individual is already a member of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, their next monthly YMCA membership fee will be waived.

Those impacted simply need to visit the member services desk at their local YMCA branch with their government-issued ID.

“At the YMCA, we work to strengthen the foundations of our community. When we see an area in our community where help is needed, we do all we can. We hope that those impacted by the government shutdown will take advantage of the mental, physical and emotional support we are here to give everyone in our community,” said Denise Day, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

The YMCA’s support of our community extends beyond the government shutdown, as they have always provided financial assistance to those in need to ensure everyone has access to the YMCA’s facilities and program offerings.

In 2018 alone, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine provided more than $3.3 million in financial assistance to support 11,319 families with access to childcare, summer camp, programs and memberships. “We are grateful to the many individuals who donate to the YMCA every year to make this possible,” said Day. The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which makes all donations to the organization tax-deductible.