Waynesboro YMCA establishes text line for COVID-19 response efforts

The Waynesboro Family YMCA has established a text line to help the community with COVID-19 efforts with support from Dominion Energy.

Dominion Energy provided a $5,000 grant to the Waynesboro Y to help support the Y’s extensive COVID-19 response programs, which have been greatly aided by a new texting platform.

The text line allows those in need and potential volunteers to connect with the Y for support.

“When Waynesboro families text their needs through our platform, the Y is able to provide assistance thanks to Dominion’s support,” said Tracy Henke, director of advancement for the Waynesboro Family YMCA.

Community members may text NEEDHELP or VOLUNTEER to 855-444-YMCA (9622) to connect with the Waynesboro Y.

“We are committed to supporting our customers and the communities we serve during this pandemic, and the work being done by local organizations is providing direct relief to those who need it most,” said Julia Pilipenko, external affairs representative for Dominion Energy. “We’re proud to support the Waynesboro Family YMCA and the work they are doing to continue vital programs, like feeding hungry families, supporting seniors, and providing childcare to essential workers during this time of need.”

Dominion Energy has provided ongoing support to the Waynesboro Y over several decades.

“This year, Dominion has stepped up when our region needed it most,” said Jeff Fife, executive director of the Waynesboro Family Y. “The Waynesboro Y greatly appreciates their generosity, as their funds provide critical resources that directly support our area’s most vulnerable residents.”

To date, the Waynesboro YMCA’s COVID-19 response has included:

• 500+ hungry people fed
• 400+ senior wellness checks performed
• 288 meal bags for the homeless provided
• 98 people served through gift cards
• 40+ kids have enjoyed childcare for essential workers
• 21 families were shopped for/delivered to
• 9 infants received diapers and formula

The Y’s COVID-19 response is possible due in part to ongoing memberships and businesses like Dominion Energy.

For more information on the Waynesboro Y’s efforts related to COVID-19 or the text system, contact the Y at (540) 943-9622 or visit www.waynesboroymca.com.