For many families, the YMCA is a place to build healthy habits, connect with others, and spend time together. For foster families, it can be something even more essential: stability.
Leah, a local foster parent and social worker, sees the impact of the Y from every angle. In her professional role, she works with children in foster care. At home, she’s raising young children of her own. In both spaces, the YMCA plays an important part in helping kids feel grounded.
Many of the children Leah works with have experienced disruption or limited access to everyday activities. Having a place where they can move their bodies, interact with others, and feel safe can make a meaningful difference.
“We take the kids to the Y a lot because it’s really regulating for them to have some sort of physical activity,” Leah shared. “It provides a sense of community, a sense of belonging. It’s a stability they can count on.”
For Leah’s family, that support often happens in the pool. Her three-year old son, who has high energy and needs frequent movement, responds especially well to time in the water. After swimming, he’s calmer, more settled, and able to rest more easily. These moments help bring balance to their day and create a routine the whole family can rely on.
Access to the Y makes these experiences possible. All foster children in Pierce and Kitsap counties receive a free YMCA membership. This access is made possible largely through donations from the community.
Without that support, many families wouldn’t be able to participate.
For families already navigating the complexities of foster care, cost can be a real barrier. Removing that barrier ensures children have access to a safe, welcoming space where they can move, learn, and connect.
Because of donor support, foster families have access to resources that support both physical and emotional well-being. Caregivers can spend meaningful time together without added financial strain, and children have opportunities to build confidence, develop skills, and experience a sense of belonging.
As Leah encourages other foster families, “Sign your foster kids up for it. You won’t regret it.”
Your support makes access possible for every foster child who walks through the doors.