DLFF has been a proud partner of the YMCA of Bucks County since 2018. DLFF’s grant-making has focused in two areas: the renovation and operations at the Fairless Hills branch; and sponsoring the Student Success Program at the Fairless Hills branch during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Student Success Program (SSP) provided a safe (out of home) option for families with school age children, grades K-6. Participating youth were able to go to the Y and complete their on line classes in small "pods" organized by grade and teacher.
More than 500 students participated in the SSPand enjoyed STEAM and academic enrichment activities as well as physical and social wellness programs.
SSP helped students unleash their potential by minimizing social isolation and academic learning loss which was prevalent among children whose school districts were shut down throughout the year. Financial ability was not a barrier and because of fundraising, the YMCA awarded over $80,000 to more than 90 children providing up to 100% financial assistance.
Featuring Debbie Sontupe, Chief Development Officer, YMCA of Bucks County.
Tell us a story about the impact of DLFF’s support for the YMCA.
We are so grateful for the partnership between the YMCA and DLFF as we share a deep commitment to children and families in our community. We would not be able to achieve the impact we have in Lower Bucks County without DLFF. One wonderful story is DLFF’s tremendous support for our Y’s Student Success Program during COVID which helped hundreds of families that were struggling with reduced employment and essential workers who needed a childcare option for their school-age children. The following accounts are from two families who have expressed their appreciation.
Family #1
"I can’t thank you enough. Being a single parent is not easy. Michael lost his dad last year. So financial struggle is real, especially now during the pandemic. Going back to work and only making 50% of my pay has presented an overwhelming challenge. I’m so thankful for this program (SSP)."
Family #2
"I am extremely thankful for the assistance provided for my granddaughter from Operation Compassion. I am a single mom/grandmom who took over the primary care of my grandchildren this past year. I am a nurse, and with the crisis of Covid, my hours have been extremely long. I wasn’t sure what I would do when my granddaughter’s school became all virtual since I work full time and cannot be home to homeschool her. Your generous assistance has provided my granddaughter with the help she needs while classes are online and has taken a burden off of me!"
Has DLFF’s support directly impacted the YMCA in any other ways?
DLFF’s support has impacted the Y in so many ways. Their friendship, financial support, and shared passion in helping others has made them one of our most incredible partners. DLFF has ensured that the Y’s programs and services are available for families, regardless of an ability to pay. In addition, we have been able to (pre-pandemic) partner with Conwell-Egan High School to build an internship program with students and create opportunities for girls who struggle with self-esteem to participate in our Empower U program. Empower U is a free donor-supported program that helps build confidence in girls through wellness, emotional support and community service. Funds dedicated to the Fairless Hills branch of YMCA of Bucks County have allowed us to successfully complete a beautiful renovation project that will revitalize an entire community. The legacy of giving back and ensuring that future generations will have a beautiful YMCA to meet the needs of the community is at the core of DLFF support of our YMCA and is incredibly inspiring.
Why is DLFF’s support important to the YMCA?
We have been able to successfully complete the Y’s construction project at the Fairless Hills branch while continuing to meet the needs of at-risk families with children and youth. We are honored to be included as one of the projects that the DLFF board has chosen to support and consider this a recognition of our mission and vision. The support of DLFF is beyond that of a financial impact. We know they are our true partners in this community ensuring that young people and their families have wonderful opportunities to grow in spirit, mind and body.
How has DLFF’s support made it possible for the YMCA to deliver on its mission?
We are grateful for the generous and transformational support from DLFF of the Fairless Hills branch capital project and our programs that serve at-risk children and youth from low to moderate income families. The capital support has allowed us to successfully complete the renovations project while allowing us to continue to offer financial support and other impactful programs for families in need. We have now opened the Fairless Hills branch of our YMCA and it will serve as the center of the community and allow us to fulfill our mission of building strong children, strong families and a strong community through healthy living, youth development and social responsibility. This would not have been possible without the unwavering support and commitment of the DLFF.
