Financial Assistance
The YMCA, with its goal of satisfying the needs of individuals, youths, seniors, and families, never denies membership to those within our community who truly cannot afford it. As a cause-driven, non-profit organization, the YMCA receives needed subsidy through generous individual donations, the United Way Community Care Fund, fundraising events, and our Annual Scholarship Fund Drive.
YMCA Assistance Program
The MAP reduces the amount you would pay each month by 10-80%. It is based on your income and the number of people covered by your YMCA membership. Find an explanation of the process and important details in the button below.
Scholarships for Membership, Programs, Child Care
The Y offers need-based assistance to help individuals and families in Tompkins County access the programs that are important to them. Financial assistance ranges from 10-80% off of select programs.
Eligible programs include group swim lessons, youth sports, evidence-based health interventions, and certain youth programs. Assistance is also available for school-age childcare and summer day camp, however, a denial letter from DSS is required.
Those interested in assistance must fill out the financial assistance application and provide financial documentation required for determining the amount of assistance. Please note that applicants requesting program financial assistance are not required to be on membership assistance. Assistance is valid for 6 months. Applicants must re-apply to prevent a lapse in assistance. All applications will be processed in 7-10 days.
Please review the information document and application below. Submit your application and ALL supporting documentation at the Welcome Center or via email to erichardson@ithacaymca.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay the Capital Improvement Fee when joining?
Yes. You will pay the same percentage of the Capital Improvement Fee as was approved for your membership.
Can I attend the YMCA while my application is being processed?
You will need to wait until you have received your email/letter and make your first payment to use the facilities regularly. Until then, you are welcome to visit and pay the daily activity fee as a non-member (a day rate of $5 for ages 0-12, $10 for ages 13-17, and $12 for $18+).
What is the payment process?
Assistance is approved for 6 months of membership. You will be enrolled in a monthly bank draft which will be billed monthly on the 1st of the month at your reduced rate. This requires a credit card or bank account to be on file with the Y.
Are the benefits of my membership different from those of members not receiving assistance?
No. Your membership will provide you with the same benefits and access to YMCA facilities, provided your membership is kept current. This includes access to the YMCA Nationwide Membership benefit.
Can I combine additional discounts with my assistance, like the 10% Community Employer Wellness Benefit?
No. You may either utilize your awarded assistance OR your discount group, but not both.
How often must I submit new paperwork?
Paperwork must be resubmitted after 6 months unless requested earlier due to a change in living/financial situation and we will review your information to ensure it is accurate and up to date. During the review process, we reserve the right to change the level of scholarship provided.
What if I am approved assistance but still can’t afford the payment?
You are welcome to submit a letter of appeal to our Membership Director. Your letter must explain why we should reconsider our decision and must contain supporting documentation. Appealing does not guarantee a change in scholarship decisions.
What should I do if there is a change in my living/financial situation?
You must contact our Membership Director immediately. You will be asked to submit the updated information and your membership/program enrollments will be reviewed.
