The Alliance of New York State YMCAs appreciates the efforts of Senator Schumer in the recently passed American Rescue Plan legislation, to ensure that YMCAs of all sizes qualify for the Payroll Protection Program (PPP). After being closed for six months, New York State YMCAs have tenuously endured another six months operating at a mandated 33 percent capacity. Without this relief for charities, nonprofits like the Y may not have survived.

“Senator Schumer continues to be a champion for nonprofit organizations and as such for YMCAs statewide,” announced Kyle Stewart, Executive Director at the Alliance of New York State YMCAs. “The COVID-19 pandemic has put many communities at risk of losing valuable nonprofit programs and services. Accessing these federal funds is essential for the survival of the vital programming YMCAs provide across New York.”

In addition to the PPP provisions for nonprofits, the American Rescue Plan provides $39 billion for childcare nationally, $1.8 billion of which will be distributed to childcare providers in New York through grants.

“YMCAs are one of the largest providers of childcare programming in New York State,” said Stewart. “These grants will help YMCAs address the learning gap, and socio-emotional challenges that the pandemic has caused for our children. It also ensures that all families continue to have access to safe, high-quality childcare both before- and after-school, and during the summer.”

Along with Senator Schumer, the Alliance would like to offer our appreciation to Senator Gillibrand, Congresswoman Velazquez, Congresswoman Maloney, Congresswoman Lowey, Chairman Nadler, Congressman Engel and the entire New York delegation for working closely with nonprofits in identifying policy solutions to support all New Yorkers.