Military Family Month
The Gateway Family YMCA helps families of military personnel maintain health and well-being while their loved ones serve our country
Since its inception in 1996, YMCAs have celebrated Military Family Month, providing Americans the opportunity to recognize the dedication, sacrifice, and service of military personnel and their families. Throughout the year, and especially this November, The Gateway Family YMCA supports military families with programs and initiatives that improve their well-being and provide opportunities to connect with other families waiting at home.
“Military families have unique needs when a loved one is away from home,” said Melynda A. Disla, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “Whether it’s providing a place where kids can make friends and have a sense of belonging or providing a place for adults to meet health goals, the Y is here and able to help.”
The Gateway Family YMCA offers YMCA family memberships through the nationalMilitary Outreach Initiative. Since 2008, the Military Outreach Initiative has provided more than 82,000 Y memberships to military members and their families nationwide. Here in Eastern Union County and Northern Middlesex County, The Gateway Family YMCA supports active duty military members and their families every day with programs to support all.
“Since moving to Elizabeth, my entire family has been a Y member due to the Army’s relationship with the YMCA. My membership is free and my family gets to use the Y as part of the Military Outreach Program. My wife uses the gym daily and takes advantage of the spin and Zumba classes, and my daughter participates in swimming and dance classes,” stated Brian, YMCA member and active duty military.
“My YMCA membership has allowed me to stay active and healthy,” added Clara, YMCA Member and military spouse. “More importantly, it has helped me cope during the stressful times that all military families go through.”
The Gateway Family YMCA is a leading501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, the Y focuses on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y ensures that all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.
First established by the Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) and recognized by the U.S. government ever since, Military Family Month recognizes the dedication and service of military personnel and their families.
To learn more about the Y and programming that supports military families, visit tgfymca.org or contact the Elizabeth Branch 908-355-9622, Five Points Branch 908-688-9622, Rahway Branch 732-388-0057 or the Wellness Center Branch 908-349-9622.
