The Y's policy is to provide facilities and programs accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status.

Financial Assistance

The YMCA Wellness Center is available for the benefit and enjoyment of all who live and work in our community. For the past 150 years, people have trusted the YMCA to provide quality programs and activities in the United States, at a reasonable cost. The YMCA 's policy is to provide facilities and programs accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status.

We know that people prefer to accept responsibility and pay full registration fees when they are able to afford them. But when financial difficulties stretch individual and family budgets too thin, the need for YMCA programs remain, and in some instances may be even more crucially needed.

YMCA Financial Assistance - A Community Partnership

As a non-profit organization, YMCA programs are subsidized by contributions given by individuals, companies, and foundations. These generous contributions make possible a Financial Assistance program whereby those who are unable to afford fees may, upon their request, be awarded scholarships. The amount of assistance is based on demonstrated need as determined on an individual basis.

How can I obtain financial assistance?

It's easy to apply for financial assistance. Simply fill out a Financial Assistance application (click here for a form you can print or get one at the Y) and drop it off, with the valid support documentation, at the front desk.. When you complete the form, please include the amount of assistance that you will need. Scholarship arrangements are usually made within three to four weeks of application submission.

Which YMCA programs offer financial assistance?

Assistance is available for most El Camino YMCA programs, including individual, family and senior memberships, as well as child care, camp, youth sports and special classes.

How much financial assistance will I receive?

There is a sliding scale based on the income and size of the family in need.

How long will assistance continue?

Assistance is granted for a specific time period, or for the duration of a program. When assistance has expired, it is possible to renew with a new application.

Will my financial assistance application and information be confidential?

Financial Assistance Applications are held in complete confidence and are seen only by YMCA administrative staff members. Individuals receiving assistance receive the same program services as those paying full fees.

How can I help the Y and show my appreciation for financial assistance?

Financial assistance recipients are encouraged to volunteer at the YMCA. There are many volunteer opportunities available. Palo Alto Family YMCA volunteers can be involved in educational tutoring, clerical assistance, event planning, coaching youth sports, and facility maintenance and other rewarding situations. Some volunteers have special talents or skills that they provide for the Y. As a non-profit organization, the YMCA is grateful to the hundreds of community volunteers who help out in many ways each day.

We encourage Financial Assistance recipients to write a brief note describing how the program has been of help to them. These may be shared with YMCA supporters, who appreciate knowing how their contributions are used.

Who provides the funds for the financial assistance?

The Financial Assistance program is made possible through generous gifts provided by the businesses and individuals who contribute to the Palo Alto Family's YMCA's annual Community Support Campaign and foundation grants from the YMCA Endowment Fund.