Wilmington, Delaware, October 12, 2020 – The YMCA of Delaware was recently awarded a $100,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware’s BluePrints for the Community fund to help support the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program. Classes are currently offered at all 7 YMCA locations throughout the state at no cost to cancer survivors. Funding from the Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware grant will allow the YMCA to increase program capacity for in-person programming and develop a sustainable virtual delivery method for immune-suppressed or compromised participants.
“Cancer is a life-changing disease that takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected,” says Tricia Jefferson, YMCA of Delaware, Director of Program Development and Partnerships. “At the Y, we are providing a safe, supportive community for cancer survivors to heal and regain their strength. Every survivor deserves unconditional support and the opportunity to be a part of this amazing program. Thanks to the Highmark grant, we are now able to expand class offerings and provide immune-compromised participants with virtual options to participate from the safety of their homes.”
In 2019, The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program supported 229 cancer survivors who found themselves on the journey from completing their treatment to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to return to normal life. The 12-week physical activity program, offered at no cost to the community, is designed to get survivors back on their feet. Small group sessions are facilitated by certified YMCA instructors who assist participants in a variety of physical activity options including cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance and flexibility.
“The LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program has proven effectiveness in supporting cancer survivors’ total health and well-being. BluePrints for the Community supports YMCA’s efforts in providing services and resources to those who have experienced various challenges on their journey to healing,” said Nick Moriello, President of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware.
BluePrints for the Community is the donor-advised fund of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware at the Delaware Community Foundation. It has contributed over $16 million to the community since its inception in 2007. It was established to serve Delawareans, with emphasis on, but not limited to, the needs of the uninsured and underserved, and to reduce healthcare disparities in minority populations and address social determinants of health.
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest non-profit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed long-standing relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org.
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