March 16 COVID-19 Update

There is no question that we as a community, nation, and world are experiencing unprecedented times. We are all making decisions we would not have ever anticipated making.  However, since our founding in 1885 and since we located our main site in downtown Worcester in 1960, the YWCA has been committed to being a resource for those most in need and those who experience inequity and disparity. However, we have also always prioritized the health and well-being our participants and members. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the YWCA has been navigating the guidance or directives offered by government officials, as well as best practice recommendations provided by medical experts.

For that reason, we have made the decision to close our fitness center and pool and cancel all affiliated classes effective March 17^th, and until April 6th, 2020 or further notification. We will also be suspending all youth leadership development and recreational programming.

We are also balancing requests from our community to continue to support the most vulnerable, as well as those who we will rely on to protect us during this crisis, such as hospital staff and emergency responders. To that end, we will continue to provide childcare for families whose industries are expected to remain open at this time, including hospital staff, emergency responders, home care aides, nursing home employees, as well as grocery stores, pharmacies, and big box stores.

Additionally, we will continue to provide support to victims and survivors of domestic violence. If you need support, please call our Domestic Violence Helpline at 508-755-9030.

We understand that the YWCA is not just where you go to access fitness services or programming, but also where you may find other social supports and resources as well.  If you have any questions or need connections to other supports during this time, please contact us at 508-767-2505 and we will do our best to provide you with support.