Tom Shaker's Letter to the Editor about The Woonsocket YMCA

In a place and time where everything seems in flux, it's always been reassuring that the Woonsocket YMCA was there day after day, week after week, and year after year.

Especially during the pandemic, the Y was a place to get and stay healthy, see old friends and make new ones. I can't begin to do justice to how valuable the Y has been to me over the years.

I was saddened when I learned the YMCA will close their doors at the end of this month. It is a gem of northern Rhode Island and despite its age, it's a place where community was not only encouraged but practiced.

The classes offered, the child care program, the basketball and pickle ball courts were accessible to all ages, all races, and all economic statuses. And the glorious pool at the Y is a treasure, from its aqua training to swim lessons for kids, lap swimming, and high school swim meets. It's a real fountain of youth for all those who use it.

Most importantly, the YMCA and its great staff have always nurtured with kindness, respect and encouragement. In an age where these things seem to have disappeared, we can't afford to lose what the YMCA has practiced for decades.

I'm hoping our city officials, the state, and possibly other organizations can step up to save our Y. If not, Woonsocket will be losing more than a couple of buildings, it will be losing a piece of its heart and soul.

Tom Shaker, Woonsocket Rhode Island