At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a healthier spirit, mind and body. Financial circumstances should never stand in the way of belonging to a supportive community, reaching personal goals or participating in programs that strengthen individuals and families.
That's why we offer financial assistance to help make YMCA memberships and programs more affordable. Whether you're experiencing a temporary hardship or facing longer-term financial challenges, we're committed to helping make the Y accessible to you.
Financial assistance is made possible through grants and the generosity of donors who support the YMCA's Annual Campaign. Each year, this support helps more than 4,000 adults and children participate in YMCA memberships and programs.
All financial assistance applications are handled confidentially, and members receiving assistance enjoy the same membership benefits as all YMCA members.
Who Can Apply?
Financial assistance is available to individuals and families who demonstrate financial need. Applicants must work or live within the service area of the YMCA where they are applying for assistance.
Assistance is based on financial need and the funding available through the YMCA. Financial assistance uses a sliding fee scale, so recipients may be asked to contribute a portion of the cost of their membership or program.
Our goal is to make YMCA participation affordable while ensuring financial assistance is available to as many people in our community as possible.
What Can Financial Assistance Be Used For?
Financial assistance may be available for YMCA membership and programs, including:
- Swim lessons
Youth programs
Personal training
Camps - Other YMCA programs and services
Assistance and award amounts are based on financial need and available funding.
Looking for Child Care or Camp assistance? Complete the Financial Assistance Form and email it to children@clevelandymca.org.
How to Apply
We've made it easier to find out whether you qualify for YMCA financial assistance.
Step 1: Complete the Online Eligibility Check
Start by completing our online financial assistance eligibility form. You'll provide some basic information about your household and financial circumstances and receive the results of the eligibility check immediately.
Step 2: Follow the Instructions Based on Your Results
If your eligibility is instantly confirmed:
You do not need to complete a paper Financial Assistance Form or provide additional financial documentation.
- Current YMCA members: Complete a membership change form to have your financial assistance applied to your membership.
- New YMCA members: Bring your eligibility confirmation to your local YMCA branch, where our team can help you get started.
If your eligibility cannot be instantly confirmed:
You may still qualify for financial assistance. You'll need to complete the Financial Assistance Form and provide documentation so our team can review your circumstances.
Please bring the completed form and required documentation to the YMCA branch where you are seeking membership or services.
Documentation may include:
- A copy of last year's federal tax return
Two current pay stubs, or
Social Security or disability check stubs
If you do not have the requested documentation or did not file taxes last year, please include a letter explaining your circumstances.
All information provided as part of the financial assistance process is kept confidential.
Keeping Your Information Current
Once you qualify for financial assistance, you do not need to reapply on a set schedule. The YMCA may ask you to provide updated verification when needed to ensure the information we have remains current.
All information provided as part of the financial assistance process is kept confidential.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All applications and supporting documents are treated confidentially and are reviewed only by authorized YMCA staff.
Applications are reviewed based on household income, family size, financial circumstances, and available funding.
Financial assistance typically reduces the cost of membership or programs rather than covering the entire amount. Award amounts vary based on individual need and available funds.
Yes. Financial assistance is awarded for a limited period and may require renewal to ensure assistance reflects your current financial circumstances.
Applications are reviewed as quickly as possible after all required documentation has been received. Processing times may vary depending on application volume.
Need Help?
We're here to help you through the process.
If you have questions about financial assistance, your eligibility results or what information you need to provide, contact your local YMCA branch. Our team can help you understand the next steps.
At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to belong, grow and thrive. If cost is making it difficult to participate, we encourage you to check your eligibility and see how we can help.