FIRST COAST YMCA

With back-to-school right around the corner for Jacksonville students, many organizations were working to make sure students are fully equipped with everything they need for a successful school year.

The First Coast YMCA is helping a group of Ukrainian children have a fun-filled summer and feel more at ease settling into their new home.

Christmas came early for First Coast YMCA. Eric Mann, President, and CEO of the First Coast YMCA said this was his reaction when he found out his organization would be receiving a sizable donation from MacKenzie Scott. While this is a monumental donation, Mann says it will still need the support of the community. He also says the board of the First Coast YMCA next month to discuss how the money will be used -- at that time the organization will disclose the amount. In addition to this organization receiving these much-needed funds, Goodwill Southeast Georgia received $5 million from Scott, and the United Way also received a donation.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. The coronavirus pandemic didnt stop one group from celebrating one of its members. First Coast YMCA staffers werent able to throw James Heyward a birthday party, so they did the next best thing: creating a video filled with birthday wishes. Heyward turned 100 years on Aug. 27. He has been part of the Y for 16 years. He said he enjoys doing the cardio and strength machines.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Some summer camps across Jacksonville are requiring masks for campers following a mandate from the city. News4Jax visited the Riverside YMCA on Thursday, where young summer campers were seen wearing masks. The YMCA said its been checking temperatures of campers, asking daily if they experience symptoms of the virus. The YMCA is encouraging parents to continue talking with their children about why they are wearing masks, to help with managing it while they are in the camps care. Bricks 4 Kidz said when campers are outdoors, they will be told to wear masks and the camp will provide them if parents cannot.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. The First Coast YMCA will reopen its 14 locations on Monday, May 25, with operating hours from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The YMCA will welcome back members at its Northeast Florida locations a week after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis gave gyms and fitness centers the green light to open back up at 50% capacity. The Y will only use cleaning products that meet the Environmental Protection Agencys criteria for use against COVID-19. The YMCA said it will continue to evaluate how it can best serve the community while prioritizing safety amid the coronavirus pandemic.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - If you always wanted to check out a YMCA, on Friday you can do it for free. The First Coast YMCA is offering free Fridays for the month of October. Guests must check in at the front desk and sign a waiver in order to participate. Everyone taking part in the Free Fridays at the Y will also be entered into a free membership giveaway. Copyright 2019 by WJXT News4Jax - All rights reserved.