La Crosse Area Family YMCA keeping facilities open, canceling some programs
The organization said updates would be forthcoming as the spread of the coronavirus changes
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT)– The La Crosse Area Family YMCA is taking action at its branches to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
In a notice to members, CEO Bill Soper said at this time, facilities will remain open but not all of its services will be available. The YMCA is also asking guests to observe certain precautions.
The organization said facilities and the Childcare Center at the Houser Y will be open. One-on-one private lessons and personal training sessions will continue.
However, all YMCA programs, classes, activities and events are canceled effective March 16, until further notice. This does include child watch services.
School Age Childcare programs (before and aftercare), will be closed the days your respective school is closed. Soper said they are currently and quickly evaluating the childcare needs in the community.
“We want to support this community coming together to ensure we can keep our healthcare facilities and other critical agencies in operation to their fullest capacity during these uncertain times,” said Soper, in the message. “Information on potential emergency school-age child care will be communicated soon. The Y is balancing how to support those in our community that are supporting others during this unprecedented time.”
Members will not be allowed to bring guests to the Y. The organization will not be issuing day passes.
In order to support members, the organization is working on exercise alternatives, including virtual class. Updates will be announced on the Y’s Facebook page.
If there is community spread of the virus, further facility decisions will be made. The organization said it will post updates on its website as well.
The YMCA is asking members if they, or someone in their household, has used mass transit outside of the immediate La Crosse area, to limit exposure to others. They are asking members not to go to YMCA facilities for 14 days after returning from a trip.
Staff in its facilities will focus largely on cleaning and the member experience.
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