Membership Assistance

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Membership Assistance

At the YMCA of Niagara and the Fort Erie YMCA, we offer opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, age, sex, creed, ability or economic circumstances. Men, women and children come to the YMCA to grow and develop into happier, more productive people. Regular participation in YMCA membership activities supports a balanced approach to personal growth, health and wellness.

Our Membership Assistance program serves those individuals and families who have the greatest need in our community. They are unable, not unwilling, to pay the full fee for a general membership.

Preparing for a Membership Assistance Interview

We will make every effort to accommodate those in greatest need who wish to participate in YMCA programs through a YMCA General Membership. We do not provide assistance for Membership Plus memberships. Those who feel they qualify can have a private, confidential interview to discuss Membership Assistance.

Appointments for Membership Assistance are available at scheduled times on a walk-in basis. Please review and fill out the information on the YMCA Membership Assistance application. It is necessary to gather proof of all monthly income and expenses and to bring this documentation with you to your appointment.

Where does the money come from to support the YMCA Membership Assistance program?
Money comes from a combination of sources:

The YMCA Strong Kids

campaign

Strong Kids

The YMCA of Niagara and the Fort Erie YMCA

We will ask the following questions in the interview:
Why would you like to become a member of the YMCA? Which programs and services interest you? Why do you feel you require Membership Assistance?

Please don't forget to bring proof of all monthly income and expenses as requested below:

• Gross monthly combined income including child tax credit if applicable, pension(s), support payments, social benefits, rental income, and any other form of income.
• Rent or mortgage
• Property taxes
• Utilities: gas, hydro, water, cable, telephone
• Transportation Costs (car, gas, bus tickets/pass)
• Child Care
• Insurance: auto, home, life
• Medical: fixed monthly expense
• Personal debt: loan, line of credit, credit cards
• Other fixed expenses

Membership Assistance Frequently Asked Questions

I could probably pay the full fee if I didn't have to pay it all at once. Apart from Membership Assistance, does the YMCA offer different payment methods?
Yes. We recognize that many people are not able to afford a single full fee payment and a Building Fee contribution and would prefer a payment plan. We have several options for payment.

Is it possible to join the YMCA for free?
No. Everyone must pay some portion of the annual fee and a contribution to the Building Fee.

How does the YMCA determine how much I can afford to pay?
Your fee is determined based on your needs, financial capabilities and your commitment to using your membership a minimum of twice a week on a regular basis. We will come to a financial agreement that is acceptable to both you and the YMCA.

If I receive YMCA Membership Assistance, what is expected of me?
All information provided by you will be kept confidential. We expect the same confidentiality from you. A YMCA membership also requires a commitment to making your payments on time and using your membership a minimum of twice a week on a regular basis.

Can the YMCA deny my application for Membership Assistance?
Yes. In rare cases that can happen. Applicants for YMCA Membership Assistance need to make a commitment to participate in YMCA programs as well as make a financial contribution toward their YMCA membership. No one is denied access to a YMCA membership because of an inability to pay, but some decide they are not willing, and so do not join.

How do I renew my membership?
We ask that you renew your membership at least four weeks before your membership anniversary date. Your membership will not be renewed until this appointment is met.