HOLYOKE – The Greater Holyoke YMCA announced it has received a $10,000 grant from the First Niagara Foundation to support the second phase of its renovation completion program.
Several years ago, the Greater Holyoke YMCA embarked on a multi-year improvement program designed to raise funds to renovate and improve its downtown facility, part of which was constructed in 1951.
A recent grant from the First Niagara Foundation, in addition to support from other community partners, will allow the YMCA to fund the second phase of renovations, which includes an upgrade to the facility’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, the installation of a new security system and various improvements to the YMCA’s youth and childcare centers.
“First Niagara’s generous grant will ensure our ability to continue providing growth-oriented programs and activities to individuals and families in our community,” said Joe Premont, president of the Greater Holyoke YMCA Board of Directors. “We are grateful to have such responsive community partners who support our mission-driven work.”
To date, the YMCA has renovated its girls’ locker room, made efficiency upgrades to its heating system and lighting, installed handicapped lifts in both pools and resurfaced its main parking area. The First Niagara Foundation also supported the first phase of renovations with a $10,000 grant awarded in 2012.
“We are thrilled to partner with an organization that listens to the needs of its community and finds new and creative ways to serve local youth and families,” said Hector Suarez, Holyoke branch manager for First Niagara. “We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Greater Holyoke YMCA as it modernizes its facility and expands its services for Holyoke residents.”