We have proudly partnered with Foster’s Creative and the Tacoma_WA Instagram page on the #lovelocal campaign in an effort to strengthen the heart of our community during the COVID-19 crisis.

For the next 4 weeks, we will be highlighting various ways you can join us in the #lovelocal movement to support local nonprofits and those in need during this unparalleled time.

Today we’re featuring our friends at The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties. The Y is a part of emergency response efforts for Washington state and Pierce and Kitsap counties and is working closely with health care providers, school districts and other community partners across both counties to provide needed childcare for our health care provider and first responder families. 

On March 16, the Y began providing care to 300 families in Kitsap County, and beginning March 23rd they began serving 600 children in Pierce County. These 900 children will be served across 17 locations at no cost to their families. While these everyday heroes battle this virus, they will know their children are in a safe environment with Y staff who truly care about them.

To ensure families in need are not left hungry, the Y is also delivering meals to families in Pierce and Kitsap Counties on a regular basis. This organization is part of a community response to a crisis, working together to save lives.

The Y has stopped collecting all membership dues to support families during this time and is solely relying on donations to help support the child care needs of our first responders and health care providers right now. It will take $15,000 per week to care for 100 children up to 12 hours a day (6:30am-7:30pm). This includes an increase in staff-to-child ratios to support the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

Merit has made their pledge to this organization and we are challenging you to join us and do the same. Please join Merit Construction in donating to the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties to help them continue to provide childcare to our first responders and health care providers. Donating to this organization is one easy way you can make a positive impact and strengthen our community.

Ways to donate:

• Text “Possible” to 44321

• Donate Online and stay informed about how the Y is working for the health of our community.