Armed Services YMCA Emergency Relief for Military Families
During a time like this, your military family may need support more than ever. We're here for you – now and always.
Remember the 4 Cs
Stay healthy and stop the spread of COVID-19, Influenza, and other illnesses by following the 4 Cs. For more information visit CDC.gov
Cover
Cough into the crook of your elbow or into a tissue that is immediately thrown away.
Create Space
Put 6 feet of distance—about 2 arm lengths—between you and others in public and at home if someone is sick.
Clean
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for about 20 seconds – about the time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.
CONTAIN
Stay home when you are sick until you are fever-free for 24 hours.
COVID-19 FAQs for Military and Their Families
Is my local Armed Services YMCA branch open and what are the doing to keep members safe and healthy?
Each of the 13 Armed Services YMCA branches is deciding what is best for its branch based on federal, state and county guidelines as well as the needs of the community it serves. Be sure to visit their website and follow their social media channels for the latest local information.
What are some other organizations that can help?
Feeding America – If you or your family are in need of food assistance, this page lists local community resources.
Is the Department of Defense providing programs and services?
Where can I find DoD's military travel restrictions?Information on the status of travel restrictions for DOD installations, facilities, and locations with greater than 1,000 DOD personnel assigned can be found here: Update as of Aug. 3.
What if I have a fitness membership through the YMCA-DoD Military Outreach Initiative?Due to COVID-19, YMCA and private fitness access will be situational, based on individual facility determination and as regulated by local and state authorities. Service members are responsible for coordinating and complying with their military unit/command recommendations and restrictions on facility use.
Minimum attendance reporting is waived beginning March 1, 2020, until further notice. Members that will not use the facility for 30 days or more should notify the facility as soon as known (via phone or email) and request their membership be put on HOLD status. If approved by the facility manager, the membership term may be extended by the same period of time it was on hold at no additional cost to the government.
Are there any alternatives to the gym?Stay active with free on-demand programs through YMCA360. There are a variety of classes, including boot camp, barre, yoga and low impact programs for seniors. Classes are led by a YMCA instructor.
What if I'm a Tricare beneficiary and may have been exposed to COVID-19?If you or a family member are showing symptoms or you believe you were exposed to COVID-19, Tricare says “DO NOT make an appointment or walk into a military hospital or clinic. Instead, stay at home and speak with a Military Health System (MHS) registered nurse, who will assess your symptoms.” Visit their site for more Coronavirus guidance.
How can I help my children manage stress and anxiety during these times?
The CDC suggests:
Taking time to tlak with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak in a way they can understand.
Reassuring your child or teen that they are safe. Let them know it is OK if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you.
Limiting your family's exposure to news coverage of the event, including social media.
