The YMCA of Callaway County is waiving its joining fee during October for new members who donate a non-perishable food item or hygiene item to SERVE instead. The YMCA is also encouraging current members to bring in donations of pantry items, personal hygiene or toiletries.
YMCA Membership Director Melissa Siegel said the Y has done food drives in the past, but this is the first time they are truly partnering with SERVE. The YMCA usually does a membership drive this time of year.
"I wanted to do something that showed what the Y's mission was," Siegel said. "It's not just a place to work out."
She said she wanted to get across the Y's mission of giving back.
"I know SERVE's food pantry always gets low. This was a way we thought we could aid them at a time we are doing our membership drive anyway."
For new members just signing up, donations can be taken to the YMCA's desk. For current members wishing to contribute, there will be a donation collection bin in the YMCA's front lobby. What the YMCA collects will be given to SERVE, a nonprofit social service agency. SERVE has a food pantry, thrift store and transportation system. They offer other services as well.
Non-members can also test out the YMCA facilities on Sundays in October. The YMCA is open for everyone from 12-4 p.m. on Sundays.
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