Community Resources

The Summit Area YMCA makes strengthening our community our cause. Every day we provide the resources needed for all to grow, learn and thrive. We nurture life lessons in kids, foster health and well-being at every age, and bring neighbors together to pursue their passions, building a better us for all.

FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

As part of our mission to strengthen our community the Summit Area YMCA provides support to those facing food insecurity within our community by partnering with The Community FoodBank of New Jersey and other local organizations to donate weekly food packages to local families within our service area.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AT THE Y

Financial assistance at the Summit Area YMCA can be used for membership, child care, summer camp, enrichment and sports programs where additional fees apply, such as soccer or swimming lessons. Families with low or moderate household income or those who are experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply.

FREE Y PROGRAMS

In response to community need, the Summit Area YMCA is proud to offer free programming open to all members of our local community. These programs include 7th Grade Initiative, Child Abuse Prevention Training, Healthy Hearts Cardiac Maintenance, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Cancer Rehabilitation, Military Memberships, Educational Lectures, Cultural Events, Special Needs Activities, Second Grade Learn to Swim, Teen Programs like college prep and more.

HOW TO STAND UP AGAINST RACISM RESOURCES

As an organization focused on addressing the most critical needs of our community and dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for all, we have compiled a variety of free educational resources, recommended readings, videos and trainings on racial equity, how to stand up against racism, how to stop racist comments in person and online, tolerance trainings and more.

LGBTQ SUPPORT & RESOURCES

The Summit Area YMCA provides LGBTQ youth and adults a welcoming and inclusive safe space to have fun, make friends, be themselves, socialize, participate in clubs, activities, events, programs, services and more. We are committed to supporting the positive development of youth, promoting healthy living and encouraging a sense of social responsibility and caring within our community.

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

As an organization focused on addressing the most critical needs of our community and dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for all, we have compiled a variety of free educational resources, recommended readings, videos and trainings on racial equity, how to stand up against racism, how to stop racist comments in person and online, tolerance trainings and more.

NEW EYES PROGRAM

Summit Area YMCA has partnered with New Eyes to provide access to vision care and free resources for families to receive free or low-cost eye care and eyeglasses to those who may not have the financial means to afford necessities to better their lives. Through this initiative, the Y and New Eyes provide the transformative tool of eyeglasses to children and adults facing financial difficulties.

SUMMIT ACHIEVE COMMUNITY GARDEN

The Summit Achieve Community Garden is a parcel of land where community members may grow organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs to enjoy and promote healthy eating and sustainable living. Apply online for a plot!

SUMMIT SUPPORT MAP

For any community member in need, please reference The Summit Hunger Coalition’s Food, Supplies and Financial Assistance Directory, provided by the Summit Hunger Coalition.

CFBNJ DIAPER PROGRAM

Many families face the tough decision of choosing between diapers and other essentials. The Summit Area YMCA, in partnership with CFBNJ aims to make that decision easier. Thanks to CFBNJ, our food distributions can supply diapers for those who need them most.

CFBNJ PERIOD INITIATIVE

The Summit Area YMCA has partnered with CFBNJ to fight period poverty and help those who need it most in our community. Thanks to our partnership with CFBNJ, The Summit Area YMCA now offers period supplies at our food distributions.

GET INVOLVED

If you would like to bring our attention to any under-served needs within our community, causes you support or get involved by becoming a community partner or volunteer, please fill out the form below.

YMCA NEWS

SUMMIT AREA YMCA

BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE YMCA

In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men’s Christian Association, but today, we are The Y; an association that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.

Please note that the section of Maple Street closest to the Summit YMCA will be closed from approximately 7 AM to 11 AM on Sunday, May 5, for our Mother’s Day 5K. Please use Cedar Street to access the public lot that is next to our building.