Sault YMCA gets a $150K facelift

NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE. MARIE YMCA
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Over the past few months, the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA has welcomed members of the YMCA to appreciate the renovation of the gymnasium flooring and equipment upgrades to the 50-year-old building. A $150,000 capital grant from Ontario Trillium Foundation, OTF has helped improve the infrastructure and equipment to support higher quality programming and physical activity.

“I am thrilled that the Ontario government is committing $150,000 for important renovations at the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA,” said Ross Romano, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie when recognizing the OTF grant. “The local YMCA provides crucial supports and programs to our community. The renovation of their gymnasium will help ensure they can continue with their commitment of fostering active lifestyles, while building on the great work they do for all of our families in Sault Ste. Marie.”

In addition to the renovation of the gymnasium flooring that was in dire need of replacement due to flood damage, further facility improvements included the addition of new equipment for the programs and to support physical literacy and skill development while enabling individuals to make healthy, active choices. The YMCA is used by a variety of community organizations for sports training, children and youth programs, and fundraisers. And thanks to the $150,000 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, community members of all ages will be able to utilize the gymnasium facilities for activities such as basketball, fitness classes, pickleball, youth programs, and more.

"The gymnasium is a critical part of our centre of community," said Joel Rowswell, board chair of the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA. “For over 50 years it has been a gathering and development space for all ages and capabilities.”

The Sault Ste. Marie YMCA is committed to preserving this space and ensuring that it remains accessible for many community activities and programs for years to come. If you wish to inquire about using the space for fitness training or hosting an event in the future once it is safe to do so, please contact Membership Services.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. OTF awarded more than $115 million to 644 projects last year to build healthy and vibrant communities in Ontario.

The Sault Ste. Marie YMCA is a charitable organization that promotes the development of spirit, mind and body, personal growth, and service to the community. Providing over 120 years of service to the Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding areas, our commitment is to strengthen the foundations of community by nurturing the potential of children, teens and young adults; promoting healthy living; fostering a sense of social responsibility; and delivering lasting personal and social change.

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