Local YMCA Shares In $1 Million Federal Funding Boost

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The federal government will be paying its dues to the groups that are doing the heavy lifting of helping to build a strong and secure foundation for local families.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman joined the New Rochelle YMCA and the Yonkers Family YMCA to announce nearly $1 million in federal funding for critical community services at both locations.

"Our youth deserve access to every resource available to help them learn, thrive and lead happy and fulfilled lives," said Rep. Bowman. "In our communities, youth are facing housing insecurity, food insecurity, changed learning environments, a growing achievement gap and violence every single day. For some kids and teenagers, involvement in extracurricular activities has the power to transform and redirect their entire lives, and for others it’s an opportunity to make new friends and engage with kids from diverse backgrounds."

As part of the FY2022 Omnibus bill President Biden signed into law last month, Bowman announced that more than $5.4 million overall will be delivered to NY-16 for 10 essential programs.

SEE ALSO: Bowman Announces $5.4M Passed by House Will Come to NY-16

Through this new funding, the New Rochelle YMCA will receive $500,000 for their Educational Achievement Gap Project.

"The New Rochelle YMCA's Educational Achievement Gap program goal is to fill the achievement gap by bringing high quality programming to families that would not otherwise have access to arts, out of school education, mental and behavioral support and fitness to assist children," New Rochelle YMCA Jennifer Ryan Safsel said. "This program funded by Congress invests in our children's long term educational and emotional growth so each child can live life to their fullest in mind, body and spirit."

The Yonkers Family YMCA will receive $496,000 to improve their pool and promote health equity and affordable swimming opportunities for youth and seniors. "We are thrilled to be able to sustain Yonkers only community pool through this congressional grant. Children and adults find connection, learning and wellness in our pool. So necessary after this pandemic. We will continue our work to bring equity to low-income residents and people of color with access to swim lessons, lifeguarding and aqua-exercise. These much needed renovations will make a deep impact in our community,” said Lucria Ortiz, President & CEO of the Yonkers Family YMCA.

Bowman noted these funds will add to both YMCAs' potential and ability to serve their communities. He also said he looks forward to seeing the impact they have in the communities and delivering more federal funding to support all NY-16 communities.