YMCA Calgary Financial Assistance

YMCA Calgary wants everyone to have the opportunity to take part in its programs and enjoy its facilities and services. Financial assistance is available through the Opportunity Fund for those who feel they would benefit from joining the YMCA, but are financially unable, not unwilling, to pay the full membership and/or program and service fees. Applying for assistance is easy and confidential. The application process is explained below.

Membership and Program Assistance
Childcare Assistance
YMCA Kids' Club Assistance
Camp Chief Hector YMCA Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Tracey's Story

Membership and Program Assistance

• Take a free tour of the branch you're interested in. This is a great way to learn more about the YMCA including workout areas, schedules and programs.
• After the tour, ask someone from Member Services to explain the interview process and give you the appropriate paperwork.
• Attend an interview:

Interviews are available on a walk-in basis during certain times each week. Check your branch's schedule (below) to see when interviews are available, and drop in during one of those times. No appointment is required.

Interview Schedules:
Crowfoot Interview Schedule - July
Eau Claire Interview Schedule - July
Shawnessy Interview Schedule - July
Shawnessy Interview Schedule - August
South Interview Schedule - July

• The day of your interview, bring the following information: documentation of your monthly household income, household expenses, childcare costs, loans, medical expenses and any other expenses that you can supply. These will help us understand your situation and ensure you receive a fair assessment.

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Financial Assistance for YMCA Child Care

Parents can apply for Day Care subsidies through Calgary and Area Child and Family Services. 

Families who need assistance to send their children to the YMCA Out of School Care program (OSC) should contact the OSC administrator at (403) 531-1651.

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Financial Assistance for the YMCA Kids' Club

Families who need assistance to send their children to the YMCA Kids' Club should contact 531-1651.

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Financial Assistance for the Camp Chief Hector YMCA 

To apply for assistance for your child or family’s camp experience, complete the following steps:

1. Fill in the opportunity fund application form in full. Click here for the summer camp opportunity fund application.
2. Collect your income and expense documents. Please see the opportunity fund brochure for more information.
3. Return the opportunity fund application and documents, along with the deposit of $150 per camper. If this cost is beyond your means, please contact our office at (403) 269-6156 to arrange an alternate amount.
4. Once the registration office receives all of the above, you will be contacted by phone.

• If you are applying for the first time you will need to schedule an interview to discuss income, expenses, loans, special situations, etc. The interview will take approximately half and hour and is completely confidential.
• If you have received assistance in the past you do not need to arrange another interview. You will be contacted for a discussion of your financial situation and to work out a payment plan. Those who have been assisted in the past, are encouraged to contribute a larger amount towards the next experience.

Paying camp fees can be a real challenge, so there are a number of payment options designed to make it easier for you, including a monthly payment plan.

Please note that parents/guardians must provide all clothing and equipment required for camp. Specific equipment requirements will be discussed during your interview.

Financial Assistance for YMCA Outdoor Programs

To apply for assistance for an outdoor program, complete the following steps:

1. Fill in the opportunity fund application form in full. Click here for the outdoor programs opportunity fund application.
2. Collect your income and expense documents. Please see the opportunity fund brochure for more information.
3. Return the opportunity fund application and documents.
4. Once the registration office receives all of the above, you will be contacted by phone.

• If you are applying for the first time you will need to schedule an interview to discuss income, expenses, loans, special situations, etc. The interview will take approximately half and hour and is completely confidential.
• If you have received assistance in the past you do not need to arrange another interview. You will be contacted for a discussion of your financial situation and to work out a payment plan. Those who have been assisted in the past, are encouraged to contribute a larger amount towards the next experience.

Please note that outdoor programs participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the Camp Chief Hector YMCA.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does the YMCA determine how much I pay?

We evaluate each person's application and financial information on an individual basis. Any information you share with us is kept confidential. The Opportunity Fund is designed so each individual or family contributes as much as they can afford towards a membership or program. At your interview, we will determine a fee based on your needs and financial ability. We will come to a financial agreement that is acceptable to both you and YMCA Calgary.

How can I pay for my assisted membership?

YMCA Calgary offers a variety of payment plans. We will discuss them at your interview.

If I receive membership assistance, what is expected of me?

We request that you keep all the information and assisted fees we discuss in your interview confidential. When you receive an assisted membership, you are expected to make your payments on time, keep your account in good standing and use your membership regularly.

Is Financial Assistance provided at all YMCA Calgary branches?

Yes, please visit the branch that you would like to join.

Will anyone know that I have received assistance?

We treat all financial assistance information as confidential. Once your application has been approved, you will be treated like any other member, camper or participant.

Can the YMCA deny my application for assistance?

Your request for subsidy could be denied if your financial information does not identify an inability to pay the fees.

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