The YMCA of Greenville embraces people of all ages, incomes, abilities, religions and ethnic backgrounds; we're for everyone. We work to break barriers of isolation and create the connections between people that add meaning to life. Individuals and families who cannot afford to pay full price for memberships or our programs still deserve the life-enriching experiences the Y offers. At the Y, we never turn anyone away because of an inability to pay.
Participants with a financial need are encouraged to apply for scholarships for any portion of the program fee that is not affordable. The YMCA uses a sliding scale to evaluate each applicant on an individual basis. Let us know your need, and we will work to help you.
Download the Financial Assistance Application here
Financial Assistance FAQ
How do I get financial assistance?
Download, complete, and return the application. It is vitally important that you include all required documents when turning in your application. Leaving out any of the required documents will delay or prevent processing of your application.
What are those required documents?
- Completed application
- Copy of most recent tax return
- Copy of two recent pay stubs for each working person in the household
- Copy of one month's bank statement
- Copy of social security or disability checks (if applicable)
- Copy of recent welfare benefits, food stamps, or section 8 housing letter (if applicable)
- Copy of unemployment benefits statement (if applicable)
- Proof of child support (if applicable)
- Proof of alimony (if applicable)
- If you have no income, a notarized letter from person(s) who provide your monthly living expenses.
Why do I have to provide so much information?
As a 501(c)3, the Y takes financial management seriously. We raise more than a million dollars every year to provide financial aid to our members and participants. By providing us your bank records and income records, it helps ensure that the people who receive financial aid truly need it and that we are providing financial assistance in a fair and consistent manner.
If I already have financial aid for membership, do I automatically get it for a program like Summer Day Camp or After School?
If you require financial aid for programs such as youth sports, after school, and summer day camp in addition to membership, be sure to indicate that on your application.
Can I use my financial assistance at any branch?
No. Each branch raises money and distributes money for financial aid independently. If you want to change your home Y, you'll need to apply for financial aid at that branch. The good news is, most of your documents should already be ready!
Can I get financial assistance for a PATH membership?
No. PATH memberships involve other parties, so financial aid isn't available for those options.
How long will it take before the assistance kicks in?
It takes about 10 business days to process the entire application.
Does it last forever?
No. Financial aid must be renewed annually. We will send you a reminder letting you know that your aid is up for renewal and will walk you through what we need if you'd like to extend your aid. Financial aid for After School must be applied for each school year. Financial aid for Summer Day Camp must be applied for before each summer.
I don't need it any more! How can I give back?
Fantastic! That's the goal. To help people out of a rough patch and get them on their feet. You know what the Y has done for you, now you can help the Y with a donation to our annual campaign.