The Morningside Rotary Club just made it possible for more young families attending the YMCA’s Young Parent Program to improve their health and mental wellbeing.
“The teenage parents we serve are facing housing, mental health, life management and educational barriers,” says Debbie Banerjee, Manager of the Y’s Child Care Programs. “We can’t thank the Morningside Rotary Club enough for their ongoing generosity – they just restocked our food pantry and kitchen supplies with the support of FreshCo, Bread Co. and London Drugs, plus purchased art materials from Staples. These donations will not only ensure our young parents and their babies have access to daily nutritious meals and snacks, but also the supplies to start an Art Therapy program to help reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem and achieve healing.”
Run in partnership with Central Okanagan Schools, the YMCA Young Parents Program provides parents under the age of 24 with the fundamental tools they need to thrive, including child care, parenting education, life skills training, connections to critical resources and a supportive community.
“Our Rotary Members are incredibly passionate and supportive in helping young families to have a healthy start and reach their full potential,” says Daryl Brost, Morningside Rotary Member.
If you, or someone you know is interested in contributing to our community by joining Rotary, please contact the Membership Director through their website. To donate to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign or to learn more about their charitable work, contact Rhonda Zakala.