Financial Assistance Program
We believe that everyone should be able to benefit from YMCA programs and services.
The Financial Assistance Program is central to our mission here at the Y. When someone loses a job, when medical bills become overwhelming, or when other challenging situations occur, people need the support of the Y. Our program is tied to the Federal Poverty Guidelines and offers a range of assistance to fit the financial situation of our community.
Find support that fits your needs.
Prospective members must complete the Greater Philadelphia YMCA’s Financial Assistance Application for us to determine the percent of financial assistance available. Financial Assistance awards are available for membership, programs, camp, and child care, though the percent awarded and program structure may differ in each area. For more information on needed documents, length of support, and how funding is provided, please visit our FAQs section.
Membership
At the YMCA, we aim to connect everyone to a healthier life, and affordable access to our facilities is a step in the right direction.
Assistance for membership is income based and ranges from 10-75% of monthly membership fees. Members who receive financial assistance need to reapply every two years.
Programs
The YMCA offers a wide variety of engaging and fun programs for all ages. We want to make sure everyone can explore their hobbies or improve their skills in the pool or on the court.
Assistance for programs is income based and ranges from 10-50% of registration fees. Members who receive financial assistance need to reapply each year.
Child Care & Camp
We understand many parents need support for their children, and the YMCA is dedicated to making high-quality child care accessible to all. The right start for a child can make a world of difference!
Assistance for child care and summer camp is income based and ranges from 10-50% of registration fees. Members who receive financial assistance need to reapply each year.
Submitting an Application
Members and prospective members can fill out an application online by following these steps.
For new members, open a new online account on the login page by clicking "Activate My Online Account".
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Login to your online account
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Click on the 'Financial Assistance' tab in the menu
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Click 'Application'
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Review information and ensure you have the proper documentation
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Select your location
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Provide responses in the required fields
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Click 'Complete'
Financial Assistance for Child Care & Camp
If you are applying for financial assistance from the Greater Philadelphia YMCA for Early Learning Care (ELC), Before and After School Care (BASE), or Camp, you must first complete and submit the appropriate application for subsidized child care required for your state. Additionally, financial assistance for child care and camp is only available to active Y members.
In Pennsylvania, the application is submitted to the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC).
In New Jersey, the application is submitted to the Child Care Resource and Referral Agency (CCR&R).
We will not be able to process your Child Care or Camp financial assistance request unless you provide a copy of an award or denial letter from the ELRC or CCR&R.
If receiving ELRC subsidy, you are eligible to have a reduced camp deposit. At the time of registration, a deposit of $30 per camp week is required at the time of registration. Families are responsible for any difference between the amount the subsidy covers, and our cost of camp. If the subsidy exceeds the deposit paid, you will be credited any amount owed at the start of camp when your subsidy is confirmed.
What is the amount of financial assistance available?
Assistance is income based and ranges from 10-75% for membership and 10-50% for all other programs. You must have an active membership to receive financial assistance for programs, camp and, child care. Not all programs may qualify for assistance. Exceptions apply.
What documents do I need to apply for Financial Assistance?
When applying for membership, programs, camp, or child care, applicants must provide the following documents while completing their application:
- Most recent 1040 Federal Tax Return (with Schedule C for self-employed business income)
- Two most recent pay stubs for all adults in the household
- Award, denial or waitlist letter from the ELRC or CCR&R (if applying for Child Care Assistance)
In addition, you will be required to provide the following documents, if applicable:
- Social Security (SSI or SSDI) determination letter
- Unemployment Compensation determination letter
- Workers Compensation determination letter
- Government Assistance (SNAP, Housing Assistance, etc.)
- Third-party support documentation
To ensure an equitable process, we cannot waive the requirement to provide documentation of income. We will assist as much as possible with resources to help them find or access documentation given our commitment to the Financial Assistance Program and the important access and support it provides for members.
How can I review the status of my application?
To review the status of your application you will need to start by navigating to your online account and follow these steps:
- Login to the portal with your username and password
- Click on the 'Financial Assistance' tab
- Check the status under the 'View Previous Applications' section
How long will assistance continue?
To keep current and provide equity we ask that all members resubmit financial assistance every two years for membership related requests and annually for camp and child care related requests.
Why does the YMCA request financial information?
Financial assistance differs from discounts or promotions and is need-based. With information on income and family size, we can award assistance in a fair and consistent manner. We use these procedures to ensure that everyone receives equal consideration.
Who will see the financial information provided?
Personal financial information is handled in a confidential manner and will be seen and reviewed only by the YMCA’s professional staff. No information is shared with any other agency or organization.
Who provides funding for the Financial Assistance Program?
The Financial Assistance Program is possible through the generosity of members and donors. As a non-profit, most funds come through the YMCA directly.
Do I need to be a member to receive financial assistance for programs, camp, or child care?
Yes. You must have an active membership in order to receive financial assistance for programs, camp, and child care.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my application?
Questions about financial aid applications and renewals can be sent to GPYFinancialAssistance@philaymca.org.
What if I don’t know if I have an account on the Member Portal?
If you do not recall if you already have a Y online account, you can use the forgot password feature to attempt to send a password reset to your email address.
- Visit the online account login page
- Click "Forgot Password?"
- Input your email address and click Reset Password
- Use the password resent link sent to your email to update your login information
Members coming from a different YMCA association may not have an account within our online account system.