Local Y Donates To Katrina

To date, national offices of YMCA of the USA and YMCA Canada, along with member associations, have pledged substantial financial assistance to support YMCAs and their respective communities affected by Hurricane Katrina. The local YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan immediately contributed $2,500 to this very important YMCA fundraising effort.

Reports indicate that over a dozen YMCA branches in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama are unable to operate due to either tremendous flooding, or significant wind and water damage. For example, The Drades YMCA in New Orleans has 5 branches suspected to be underwater and YMCA staff have been unable to return to their branches.

On a more optimistic note, some YMCAs were able to open over the weekend as power was restored to their areas to offer much needed shower facilities to refugees. The Capital YMCA in Baton Rouge reports most of their staff are back to work and they are providing services to more than 1,500 refugees, including recreation for more than 300 displaced children.

The YMCA of the USA, with participation from YMCA Canada, continues to formulate a movement-wide strategy that will concentrate on eight areas of assistance: Fundraising, Counselling, Temporary Housing, Staff Relocation Assistance, Programs and Services to Refugees, Data Management and Communication, Insurance and Property Management and Recovery Resources.

“As the magnitude of the situation in the Gulf Coast is catastrophic, there was no questioning why we should jump in to fund the relief efforts of YMCA of the USA,” states Sharon Peterson, CEO, YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan. “In addition, we are taking steps to communicate offers of support and resources.”

Experts are predicting that the relief and recovery effort along the Gulf Coast will take years and YMCAs in the region will require much time, energy and resources. For individuals and groups interesting in donating to the YMCA Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund, donations will be accepted at the Kelowna Family YMCA-YWCA at 375 Hartman Road and a tax receipt will be issued. One hundred percent of all funds will go directly to the YMCA of the USA relief and recover efforts. For more information, please contact 765-4191.

Guided by our core values of responsibility and care, and in alignment with our mission, the YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan supports national and international YMCAs and YWCAs during unprecedented challenges to positively impact the lives of those in need.