The YMCA has announced it has made the difficult decision to cancel this year鈥檚 Healthy Kids Day in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

鈥淔or the past 15 years, the YMCA has proudly hosted the largest Healthy Kids Day in Canada, a national Y initiative with the goal of bringing families together to engage in fun, active play, and learn healthier habits to help them grow and thrive,鈥� said Erica Marshall, YMCA marketing and communications manager.

鈥淲e couldn鈥檛 have done it without you, your generosity and participation.鈥�

The YMCA will also see some changes in the coming years to align with other YMCAs across North America that host Healthy Kids Day on smaller scales. The YMCA plans to shift the event to take place within the 91大黄鸭 Family Y, with a focus on child development, education and providing families with the resources and expertise needed to live healthy every day.

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Now more than ever, the YMCA of Okanagan needs solid financial footing in order to help those most impacted by the COVID-19 health and economic challenges. For those who are able, the YMCA asks that you consider the following to help continue their vital charitable work.

The YMCA plans to reschedule its largest fundraiser of the year, YMCA Cycle for Strong Kids, to this fall. For those who would like to transfer their Healthy Kids Day sponsorship commitment to support Cycle for Strong Kids, email wendy.wright@ymcaokanagan.ca for more information. Those who can are also encouraged to make a donation online at www.ymcaokanagan.ca and receive a charitable tax receipt.

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