CHESTER COUNTY, PA – The YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) has made a significant impact this fall through education, outreach, and support programs aimed at addressing local challenges. From partnering with community organizations for Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week to spreading holiday joy through the Holiday Cheer Initiative, YGBW strengthened its commitment to supporting Chester County families.
Raising Awareness About Hunger and Homelessness
During Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, YGBW partnered with local organizations to engage students from its Before and After School Enrichment (BASE) program. Students learned about critical issues related to hunger and housing insecurity by participating in presentations and hands-on service projects alongside local nonprofits, including Chester County Food Bank, Kennett Area Community Service (KACS), Oxford SILO, Meals on Wheels, and more.
Melissa Pacella, Executive Director of Oxford SILO, helped students gain perspective through a budgeting activity to illustrate the struggles many face. “It was a great experience and discussion with the kids,” Pacella said. “They started to understand that having a job does not necessarily mean that you have the resources needed for food and shelter, which is why organizations like SILO exist.”
BASE students contributed by packing meal boxes, food bags, and tickets for distributions, as well as collecting over 250 boxes of cereal to support local families. Claudia Aust, Senior Association Director of Licensed Childcare Programming at YGBW, emphasized the program’s value. “Our partnerships provide students with a deeper understanding of the issues facing our neighbors while teaching compassion and empathy,” she said.
Bringing Holiday Cheer to Families
Building on the success of its awareness campaign, YGBW spread holiday cheer across Chester County through its Holiday Cheer Initiative. This year, the program supported 908 households, surpassing the 561 served last year. Contributions included 3,678 winter coats, 900 holiday meal kits, 2,237 gifts for children, and 120 bicycles.
Key partners like the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation, Giving Bikes Back, and numerous businesses and community groups contributed to this effort. Laura Mackiewicz, Director of Volunteer and Civic Engagement at YGBW, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “Initiatives like the Holiday Cheer program show how much we can do when we work collaboratively,” she said. “The generosity and dedication from our partners have been overwhelming, and we are thrilled to share the spirit of the season with so many families.”
From helmet fittings by Giving Bikes Back to homemade blanket donations, the initiative reflected the strength of community collaboration.
Continued Commitment to Chester County
These fall programs highlight YGBW’s dedication to fostering compassion and providing critical resources within the community. Through education, partnership, and service, the YMCA is ensuring a brighter, more connected future for Chester County families.
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