I’m lucky to have gone to camp when so many other kids like me don’t get a chance to.
A person’s income should never be an obstacle to his health and well-being. This is why the YMCA is committed to levelling the playing field for low-income families and individuals by removing financial barriers to Y activities and services.
“My name is Star. My thirteen-year-old son Bishop has been going to Camp YMCA Kanawana since he was six. This wouldn’t have been possible without financial assistance from the YMCA.
There are clear benefits. I see a difference every time Bishop comes back from camp. He has a healthier, more positive view of himself. Now, I believe it’s more important than ever for my son to go to Kanawana. At his age, Bishop is still trying to figure out who he is. It’s hard to find an environment that will help him build his character, where he won’t be pressured into being someone he’s not.
By giving families like Star’s a chance to send their kids to our summer camp, you are showing us that you fundamentally believe that people should not be denied a healthier life because of economic or social circumstances.
Other inspiring stories…
Bishop and Star, Camp YMCA Kanawana
Alexander, with autism, day camp and after-school program
It starts here
Our impact
6,758
participants who could not otherwise afford our activities and services saw their lives change thanks to financial assistance from the YMCA totalling $1.196M.
1,300
people who were homeless or at risk of being homeless got help to turn their lives around or were referred to the appropriate resources.
1,000
asylum seekers stayed at the YMCA Residence and found the support they needed to start a new life.