A Grateful Y Community Gives Back

Every day, the SSYMCA provides a variety of programs and services, fueled by the support and contributions of generous donors, to help individuals and families in need or at risk across the South Shore. And there’s no better time to witness these gifts in action each year than the holiday season.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and Alma Cares, led by Paul Wahlberg, volunteers from the South Shore YMCA and the community gathered together once again to package over 1,700 Thanksgiving dinners which are distributed to the SSYMCA Germantown Neighbor Center’s Food Pantry and other non-profits to distribute to families and individuals in need.

After turkeys and all of the accompanying fixings were packed, South Shore YMCA staff, along with the help of volunteers including students and teachers from Archbishop Williams High School, regrouped to help distribute these meals across the South Shore.

“Everyone gets involved in the holiday spirit and is happy to give,” said Claire Brennan, Executive Director, The SSYMCA Germantown Neighborhood Center of the Thanksgiving meal delivery – an annual tradition at the Center. “I consider myself very lucky at this time of year to see this magic happen. I get to witness the joy on parents’ and childrens’ faces from the gifts they receive, but also the joy of all of our donors who want to give, spread joy and make a difference. It’s the real reason for the holiday. Helping to make all of this happen for our community is why we’re here, and why the Y does what it does. I wish that every single one of our donors could witness the magic that they help to create… it’s truly amazing.”

Visitors to the Germantown Neighborhood Center echoed Brennan’s comments of gratitude, especially with this special time of year in mind.

“These donated meals are the equivalent of a weight lifted off your shoulders,” shared one visitor of the Germantown Neighborhood Center. “The food we receive ensures that everybody can come over and enjoy the holiday together. My kids can’t wait to help me cook, and love having family come over that we don’t get to see that often. I hope the donors of these meals know how thankful I am for them, on behalf of myself and the entire community. I’d like to extend my gratitude to the donors who continue to make this holiday possible for my family.”

To help more local families experience a happy holiday season, please consider donating in one of the following ways:

GIVING TREE: Visit our Quincy YMCA and Emilson YMCA branch in Hanover to select wish list items from our Giving Trees that you can purchase for families and neighbors in need. Once purchased, return your gift to either branch or to the Germantown Neighborhood Center.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY: Stop by our Quincy Branch or Emilson Branch in Hanover for details on adopting a local at-risk family. Adopting a family is a great way for families and colleagues to team up and make a difference together.

MAKE A DONATION: Visit ssymca.org/donate to make a Holiday Assistance donation.

Donations may be dropped off by Friday, December 13 at: