YMCA and Kansas Health Foundation announce $600,000 grant to expand statewide services
Three-year initiative aims to bring health and wellness programs to 1 million residents
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Sign up freeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Greater Wichita YMCA and the Kansas Health Foundation announced a $600,000 grant on Monday to expand health and wellness programs statewide, aiming to reach 1 million Kansans over the next three years. The partnership is designed to improve access to preventive care, connection and opportunity, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The initiative will scale an integrated health and wellness model by bringing together Kansas YMCA associations, local businesses and community organizations. The Greater Wichita YMCA currently serves nearly 200,000 participants across a five-county area in south-central Kansas, operating 12 branches in cities including Hutchinson, Wichita, Andover, El Dorado, Newton and McPherson, alongside its 24/7 digital platform, YMCA 360.
Ed O'Malley, president and CEO of the Kansas Health Foundation, said the collaboration is critical to a broader strategy of making Kansas the healthiest state in the nation. By expanding the YMCA's reach, the funding will help bridge resource gaps for residents regardless of income or geographic location.
“We know there are many kids and adults in rural and underserved areas of the state who don't have access to YMCA programs and activities,” said Ronn McMahon, president and CEO of the Greater Wichita YMCA.
As the project launches, both organizations are actively recruiting additional Kansas businesses and groups to join the developing statewide coalition.
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