Eastern Shore YMCAs offer Free Summer Memberships for teens

The Eastern Shore Family YMCA in Onley and the Northampton Family YMCA are offering free summer memberships for teens for the fifth consecutive year.

The program, offered through the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, gives teens free access to YMCA facilities, programs, and dedicated teen spaces from June 1 through Aug. 31.

YMCA officials said the initiative is intended to provide safe places for teens to stay active, connect with friends, and take part in healthy activities during summer break, when many young people lose access to the routines and support systems they have during the school year.

Through the free memberships, teens can work out, swim, play sports, attend group fitness classes, participate in leadership programs, and use teen spaces designed for them.

Anthony Walters, president and CEO of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, said the program is designed to remove financial barriers and give more teens access to positive summer opportunities.

Since launching in 2022, the YMCA of South Hampton Roads says nearly 7,000 teens have taken part in the free summer membership program.

Registration is now open. Memberships are valid through Aug. 31 at the Eastern Shore Family YMCA, the Northampton Family YMCA, and other YMCA of South Hampton Roads locations.

For more information or to register, visit ymcashr.org/summerteens.