La Mirada, CA.- Francis of Assisi said, "Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible." In 2020 the YMCA of Greater Whittier, like so many organizations, has been challenged by the pandemic. In March, we scaled back operations doing only what was necessary and nine months later we have exciting news that just months ago felt like an impossibility.
The Y is excited to announce that starting November 18, 2020 our childcare services are expanding to La Mirada at the former Rancho Elementary School campus, 14540 San Cristobal Drive, La Mirada. Beginning today we are excited to offer All-day school-age care, and soon preschool ages 2-5 and infant care. Additionally, we will begin enrolling adults age 24+ (Regional Center Clients) to our new Stride program site also located at the Rancho campus. The Stride Program is a day program that assists and encourages adults with diverse abilities to achieve their highest potential in the community by increasing their independence and enhancing their quality of life. The Y is an advocate for inclusion and for over three decades this program has empowered participants to continue their journey to self-advocacy right here in their home community!
Additionally, the YMCA of GREATER YMCA participates in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Child and Adult Care Food Program. Meals will be served to our participants and through “Grab and Go” meal distribution to families with children 18 and under.
One of the goals from our strategic plan adopted in 2018, was to expand our programming deeper into our Service Area. Earlier this year we began conversations with the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District to utilize the Rancho Elementary School campus. The Y is happy to see the partnership with the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District expand in supporting student success.
About the YMCA of Greater Whittier
For more than 104 years, the YMCA of Greater Whittier has played a vital role in strengthening the city of Whittier and neighboring communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Greater Whittier is a non-profit organization with twelve sites throughout Whittier, Santa Fe Springs and La Mirada, plus Camp Arbolado in the San Bernardino Mountains. The Y’s mission comes to life through cause-driven programs such as preschool, full-day and after school enrichment, Grab and Go meals, youth sports, swim lessons and more. Everyone is welcome and Affordable for All financial assistance is available to those in need.