$750,000 Earmaked For Hillsborough YMCA In House Bill: Malinowski

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — A New Jersey congressman visited with Ukrainian campers and reaffirmed his support for local YMCAs during his visit to the Hillsborough campus.

Tom Malinowski (D-NJ-7) spoke with Ukranian twins Maksym and Polina about his experience fleeing Communist Poland with his mother when he was six. He told the 11-year-olds that the YMCA was important in his early life, and that it helped change his life path.

“I was thrilled to connect with camp counselors and children enjoying the last days of summer camp," Malinowski said. "They are why we do this—to provide opportunity and access to everyone in our community."

Maksym and Polina told the congressman that they especially enjoy playing sports like soccer and basketball.

Malinowski secured $750,000 for the Hillsborough branch in the House federal spending bill for 2023, said Greater Somerset County YMCA director of marketing Cristina Córdoba. That bill is now in the Senate.

"If signed into law, this funding will upgrade safety measures and expand learning spaces and wellness centers to enhance the community culture and public health," Córdoba said. "We appreciate his commitment to helping us meet evolving needs through vibrant facilities and vital mission-driven programs and services."

The congressman also toured the YMCA and learned more about planned renovations at the facility in a meeting with leaders. A facility renovation was underway when the COVID-19 pandemic began, and the YMCA had to shift focus and funding to other programs.

"Hillsborough YMCA’s facility enhancement project will improve safety, accessibility, and inclusivity throughout the facility; create more open and functional space to improve individual and community health; as well as provide upgraded spaces for educational opportunities for children and teens," the YMCA said.

Malinowski said he and Greater Somerset County YMCA leaders will continue talking about how to serve the community's growing needs.

"I look forward to many more years of serving and supporting the Y,” he said.