YMCA volunteers unload a car full of supplies for relief efforts

YMCA Pandemic Response

Ys Respond to COVID-19

Every day, Ys respond to the specific needs of the communities they serve. The sudden school closures and economic uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically increased the need for child care and food access. Kids of all ages began learning remotely for the first time, millions found themselves out of work and seniors faced social isolation. Ys across the U.S. responded quickly to the unprecedented circumstances, continuing to fulfill the Y’s purpose of strengthening communities. 

Staff member holding toddler in nursery

Emergency Child Care

The Y—one of the nation’s largest and most trusted providers of child care services—offered emergency child care for families of essential workers at more than 1,000 sites.

YMCA volunteers unloading food to donate

Food Distribution

For years, Ys have addressed child hunger in programs for children and families. These efforts have expanded to feed even more children, families and adults in communities across the U.S.  

Child taking virtual learning courses online at a YMCA

Virtual Learning

Ys created staff-supervised virtual learning spaces so kids could receive support for their school’s online curriculum in a safe, enriching environment.

Child sitting in playroom with staff member

Free Child Care During Vaccine Appointments

Ys serving more than 500 communities in 38 states are offering free drop-in child care during vaccination appointments to reduce barriers for parents and caregivers

To learn how you can support the Y’s relief and recovery efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, contact your local Y, volunteer or donate.

FIND YOUR Y

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

The YMCA of the USA is a not-for-profit, section 501(c)(3).

Meeting Community Needs

Learn more about how we're working to strengthen communities. 

  • Covid-19 Vaccines

    Access accurate information about the vaccines and learn how to access the vaccines themselves.

  • Disaster Response

    From natural disasters to pandemics, the Y steps in to meet the critical needs of the communities it serves. 

  • Community Programs

    Learn about the Y's work to ensure that people and communities thrive.