With grant from La Crosse Community Foundation, the Y cuts ribbon on a new community service
April 27, 2023
| By La Crosse Community Foundation |
With a $40,000 grant from the La Crosse Community Foundation, La Crosse Area Family Y cut the ribbon on a new van today, representing the “Y on the Fly” program rolling into La Crosse, Wisconsin, this summer.
Y on the Fly is a nationwide initiative that brings the resources and benefits of the Y directly to communities with limited access to youth programming. The program uses specially designed vehicles (like the van introduced today), filled with sports equipment, educational materials, and trained staff to deliver nutritious food and a variety of activities to children and families.
“It’s the Y without walls,” said Jennie Melde, director of community outreach at the Y. “With it, we’ll be able to deliver healthy meals alongside educational summer fun and recreational activities. We’ll also be able to use those pop-ups to connect families with resources offered at a typical Y branch. Y on the Fly will bring the Y out into the community, extending accessibility and opportunity.”
The Y on the Fly concept tackles many community challenges at once, said La Crosse Community Foundation Chief Executive Officer Jamie Schloegel, pointing to food insecurity, obesity-related health issues, and mental health challenges related to social isolation and lack of access to recreational opportunities.
“We’re excited to see the La Crosse Area Family Y reach even more children with opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Schloegel. “It means more kids, regardless of their background or financial circumstances will have access to the Y’s enriching programming to foster their development and well-being.”
Meal delivery is a vital component of the Y on the Fly program. Last summer, the Y’s Youth Food Program distributed more than 55,000 meals at 21 sites, and the Y’s Community Youth Center currently serves 600 meals each month.
“Our goal with Y on the Fly is to ensure that ALL families have access to healthy food, youth programming, and a variety of engaging recreational opportunities,” said Y Food Program Director Courtney Kramolis. “Y on the Fly, with the help of the La Crosse Community Foundation grant, allows us to provide these services more efficiently, allowing for more food to make its way to community members.”
The Y plans to launch Y on the Fly early this summer and run it throughout the season. Kramolis expects to reach hundreds of new children in just its first year in La Crosse.