As you may know, like many charities, the YMCA of Sault Ste. Marie has continued to work toward post-pandemic recovery, including critical assessments of the strengths and challenges of our organization. Unfortunately, increased operational costs, coupled with inflation and a slow return to pre-COVID levels of participation, mean that our charity is in a difficult financial position, and we are exploring options to address the challenges we face. We have engaged legal and financial advisors to assist in next steps including assessing a path forward and we have had to make some operational decisions:
- Our McNabb Street property is for sale.
- Unfortunately, we have had to make the extremely difficult decision that all programs will close as of Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at the latest.
- In terms of our 8 YMCA childcare sites, we can say that our funding partners are working on a plan for continuation of service. Parents and staff will receive frequent updates.
- With respect to the Y Childcare at 235 McNabb St., with support from our funding partner and community providers and in collaboration with parents, the children will attempt to be transferred to another childcare site with available spaces. It is expected that this transition will happen over several weeks. Parents and Staff will receive frequent updates.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone in the community who has engaged with or contributed to the YMCA of Sault Ste. Marie. Your support has led to thousands of children, families and individuals developing a healthy spirit, mind and body and building a legacy of caring in our community. The YMCA exists purely to help make the community a better place, and it has been our honour to see the impacts of the organization in the community.
We appreciate your support and understanding as we navigate through this process.
With gratitude
John Haddock, Interim CEO