At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality childcare and enriching day camp experiences — regardless of a family’s financial situation.
Through our Financial Assistance Program, families may qualify for reduced fees based on household income and demonstrated need.
About the YMCA Childcare Financial Assistance Program
As a nonprofit charitable organization, the Y provides financial assistance to ensure everyone has access to our programs.
The YMCA financial assistance program for childcare operates on a sliding fee scale, designed to make high-quality childcare accessible to families who value YMCA programming but may not be able to pay the full fee.
Financial assistance is:
- Based on household income and family size
- Awarded according to demonstrated financial need
- Subject to available funding
Funding for YMCA financial assistance comes from grants and generous donations to our Annual Campaign. Each year, the YMCA provides assistance to more than 4,000 adults and children in our community.
All families receive the same program experience and benefits, regardless of whether they receive financial assistance.
Am I Eligible?
To be considered for YMCA childcare or day camp financial assistance, applicants must:
- Demonstrate financial need based on YMCA income eligibility guidelines
- Provide proof of total household income for the past 30 days for all adults in the household
- Submit adult school schedules if no income is currently being earned
- Be registered or intend to provisionally register their child(ren) in a YMCA childcare or day camp program
Eligibility is determined based on:
- Household size
- Total income of all adults in the household
- Adult availability
Because we believe in shared responsibility, families may be asked to contribute a portion of the program fees.
Financial assistance is granted to the extent that funds are available. The YMCA reserves the right to refuse assistance to any applicant.
How Do I Apply?
Applying is easy and confidential. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Create a YMCA Account
Create an online YMCA account and provisionally register your child(ren) for the childcare or day camp program of your choice.
Step 2: Complete the Online Financial Assistance Form
Submit the YMCA Childcare Financial Assistance application online.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
We cannot process your application without income documentation.
You must upload one of the following:
- Copy of last year’s tax return
- Copy of last two pay stubs
- Copy of Social Security or disability checks
- Bank statement showing monthly deposit
- Adult school schedule (if applicable)
If you did not file taxes or do not have the required documents, please submit a letter explaining your situation.
If you need a copy of your tax return, you may request one from the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Publicly Funded Childcare (PFCC)
In some cases, families may also be required to apply for publicly funded childcare vouchers.
To begin your PFCC application, visit:
For assistance, please contact our office at:
children@clevelandymca.org
or call 216.263.6860
(Provider ID numbers are available upon request.)
How Will I Be Notified?
- Applications are reviewed in the order received.
- Processing time is approximately 7 business days.
- You will receive a follow-up email at the primary email address on file.
- A response is required within 2 business days of notification.
Families may be required to reapply periodically to keep information current.
Have Questions?
If you are not ready to apply but would like more information:
Learn more about our childcare and day camp programs on our website.
Contact our Payment Registrar Office at 216.263.6860
Email: children@clevelandymca.org