YMCA expands financial aid to support San Diego families earning up to $142K as costs rise

Starting August 1, the maximum income threshold for assistance will increase from $102,000 to $142,000 per year.

SAN DIEGO — The YMCA is expanding its financial assistance program to support more San Diego families facing rising living costs. Starting August 1, the maximum income threshold for assistance will increase from $102,000 to $142,000 per year. The program offers discounts on every program the YMCA offers.

Emalee Mills, a mother of four who struggles with increased expenses, represents the families the YMCA aims to help. “The thing that has changed the most for us has been groceries,” she said.

As costs continue to soar in San Diego for essentials like rent and gas, many families have found it difficult to afford programs like childcare, summer camp, and gym memberships, even with what was once considered a comfortable income. Shelly McTighe-Rippengale, the YMCA’s Chief Mission Advancement Officer, emphasized that the old threshold left many families without the help they needed.

“With the new changes, families can qualify for assistance making up to $142,000, depending on family size,” McTighe-Rippengale explained. The adjustments also include an increase in the minimum discount for qualifying families from 10% to at least 25% off program fees. For example, a week of summer camp that typically costs $400 would drop to $300.

Families will also benefit from longer eligibility periods, with approved assistance now lasting up to two years instead of one, reducing the need for frequent reapplications.

The YMCA’s ability to expand its assistance program comes amid financial challenges faced by many nonprofits. McTighe-Rippengale highlighted strong community support as a vital factor, noting, “This year, we had over 12,000 donors give a total of $9.1 million, and the bulk of that goes to this financial assistance program.”

Mills, who visits the YMCA regularly, said she was unaware of the financial assistance offered but is eager to learn more, adding, “I think that’s great. We can use all the help we can get.”

To find out how to apply for assistance, click here.