The New York State Health Foundation (NYSHealth) recently awarded a COVID-19 Response Grant totaling $150,000 to the New York State YMCA Foundation, Inc. to improve the physical and mental health of school-age children served by YMCAs across New York State.
Studies have shown that physical activity, nutrition, and mindfulness are essential to children’s mental and immune health, particularly during times of crisis. As schools had to employ various learning models to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, it has become increasingly difficult for children to receive adequate physical activity and nutrition instruction. As a result, children are now subject to increased risk of chronic disease, depression and anxiety resulting from isolation and other factors exacerbated by COVID-19, such as access to food and social supports.
Funding will allow YMCA childcare staff from all New York YMCA Associations to participate in Restart Smart New York, which includes virtual trainings and access CATCH’s new video health and nutrition lessons designed for multi-grade distance learning. Additionally, YMCAs will be equipped with virtual and in-person curriculum and equipment to actively engage children while social distancing, as well as virtually through a screen.
2021 Restart Smart New York Mini Grant Opportunity
All New York State YMCAs are eligible to receive a$1,000 mini grant to support implementation of Restart Smart New York for their school-age childcare programs. In order to apply, Ys must complete the following funding application available on the new Grant Portal. The Foundation will only accept one application per YMCA Association. Applications must be submitted by 11:59pm on January 22, 2021 to be considered.
Informational Webinar
Join the Alliance of New York State YMCAs and CATCH Global Foundation for a Kickoff Webinar on January 7, 2021 at 11:00am focused on our new grant opportunity to improve the physical and mental health of school-age children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The webinar will be recorded for later viewing, as well as the slide deck.
Webinar Slide Deck and Recording
CATCH Resources
Training Offerings and Registration